Los Angeles Fires Deal Another Setback to Struggling Hollywood

LOS ANGELES - 13 JAN - As wildfires ravage Los Angeles, Hollywood's entertainment industry faces yet another significant blow, with actors, crew members, and producers losing homes and film and TV productions halted. The fires come at a time when the industry, already battered by the pandemic, labor strikes, and rising production costs, is struggling. Some of Hollywood's biggest stars, including Anthony Hopkins, Mel Gibson, and Billy Crystal, have been affected, and numerous TV productions, such as "Grey's Anatomy" and "NCIS," have paused their operations. Additionally, with the city covered in dense smoke and soot, outdoor filming is hindered, and even productions further from the fires are experiencing difficulties.

The ongoing crisis has also disrupted Hollywood's award season, with events like the Critics Choice Awards and premieres for films like "The Last Showgirl" being canceled or delayed. There are calls for the season to be scrapped entirely, with actress Jean Smart suggesting networks should donate the revenue from award broadcasts to fire victims and first responders. While celebrities are expected to remain financially stable, the cancellation of such events would severely impact gig workers in Hollywood, including makeup artists, security staff, and drivers, who rely on these paychecks.