The 2025 Oscar nominations have been unveiled, marking the official start of the awards season. The announcement took place on Thursday morning at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Los Angeles by Bowen Yang and Rachel Sennott. This year's ceremony is set to proceed as planned on March 2nd, despite the challenging backdrop of devastating wildfires affecting Southern California. Conan O’Brien will host the event for the first time, adding a fresh dynamic to the prestigious occasion. Despite calls to cancel or postpone the event, the Academy has extended voting periods and slightly delayed announcements to accommodate affected members. The competition remains fierce across all categories.

In a region grappling with unprecedented challenges, the Oscars' organizers faced significant pressure regarding the timing of this year's ceremony. Thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate their homes due to wildfires that have ravaged Southern California. Despite these adversities, the Academy CEO Bill Kramer confirmed the decision to hold the 97th Academy Awards on schedule after consultations with major stakeholders. Notable adjustments included extending the voting period and postponing the nomination announcements by several days. These measures aimed to provide some relief to Academy members who have been directly impacted by the crisis.

Yang and Sennott’s roles in revealing the nominees added an element of star power to the proceedings. Yang, known for his work on “Saturday Night Live,” recently starred in the musical “Wicked.” Sennott, a versatile writer-actor, brought her own flair to the event. The list of nominees spans various categories, from Best Picture to Best Actor, highlighting a diverse array of talent. Films such as “The Brutalist,” “A Complete Unknown,” and “Emilia Pérez” are among the frontrunners, each bringing unique stories and performances to the fore.

Conan O’Brien's hosting debut promises to inject humor and charm into the ceremony. His selection reflects the Academy’s desire to offer viewers an engaging experience amidst uncertain times. While some critics argue that holding the event during such a crisis is insensitive, the Academy maintains that it provides a much-needed moment of entertainment and recognition for the film industry. The extended voting period and postponed announcements demonstrate a balance between tradition and empathy.

As the Oscars approach, the focus remains on celebrating cinematic achievements while acknowledging the ongoing struggles faced by many in Southern California. The ceremony will highlight exceptional films and performances, offering both recognition and inspiration. Despite the challenges, the show will go on, symbolizing resilience and the enduring spirit of the arts community.