Actors Rachel Senott and Bowen Yang announced the Oscar nominations on Jan. 23. The president and CEO of the Academy of Motion Pictures, Art, and Sciences introduced the 97th Oscars nominations while giving their deepest sympathies to everyone impacted by the L.A. fires. 

Many are on edge because some feel the show must continue, while others believe the Oscars should be paused. Actress Jean Smart, who starred in the CBS sitcom Designing Women, shares her opinion: “With all due respect, networks televising the Oscars should donate 100% of their revenue to L.A.’s wildfire victims and firefighters,” said Smart.

Considering these concerns, the Academy Awards postponed the nominations announcement, rescheduling it to Jan. 23 at 5:30 a.m. after the original Jan. 17 date had been delayed to Jan. 19. The decision ensures that all voices are heard and that the integrity of the awards process stands tall. As for the ceremony, it’s still set for March. 

Ten movies were nominated for Best Picture, including Wicked, Emilia Perez, Anora, The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, I’m Still Here, Dune: Part Two, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Conclave. Emilia Perez received 13 total nominations, setting an all-time Oscar record for a non-English-language film.

Notable nominated actors include Sebastian Stan, Timothee Chamolet, and Karla Sofia Gascon, who was nominated for Best Actress, making her the first openly transgender performer to be so honored. Tune in on March 2, 2025, when the 97th Academy Awards are given. If the performances are anything like last year, this year’s Oscars could compete with last year’s best moments of the Oscars.