The deadly wildfires in Los Angeles have caused major destruction, with evacuations and loss of life. A report by The Sun says that the Oscars ceremony, set for its 96th year, might be cancelled for the first time because of the ongoing crisis.

A source told the news portal, "The board's main concern right now is not to appear insensitive while so many people in Los Angeles are experiencing heartbreak and loss. Even if the fires calm down in the next week, the city will still be dealing with the aftermath for months. As a result, the focus will shift to providing support and fundraising when the time is right.

Even during the 2021 COVID lockdown, the Oscars were only postponed for two months instead of being cancelled. However, this year, the Academy Awards, led by stars like Tom Hanks, Emma Stone, Meryl Streep, and Steven Spielberg, are closely watching the situation in Los Angeles to determine whether the ceremony should be called off due to the severe wildfires. The devastation has prompted the Academy to prepare a "contingency plan" for a potential cancellation, a measure last used after 9/11.

According to the report, even if the Oscars ceremony goes ahead, the famous goody bags, worth £140,000 ($171,000), will be scrapped. Traditionally, these bags have included luxury items like a three-night stay in the Swiss Alps, beauty treatments, jewellery, and a £1,000 ($1,220) barbecue grill. However, board members have now decided that such gifts would be "in bad taste" given the current situation.

In light of the ongoing crisis, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended the nomination voting period until January 17. The nominees will now be announced at a virtual event on Thursday, January 23. The wildfires have had a devastating impact, with many A-listers, including Mandy Moore and Paris Hilton, losing their homes. The fires have claimed 25 lives so far, and that number is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue.