In the wake of the catastrophic wildfires currently ravaging Los Angeles, actress Jean Smart has made a powerful call for action.
The 73-year-old actress, known for her role in Hacks, is urging television networks to reconsider their plans to broadcast upcoming awards ceremonies
Instead of airing the events, Smart believes the funds that would be used to televise these glamorous occasions should be redirected towards relief efforts for those affected by the fires.
A Public Plea for Change
Smart took to Instagram to share her thoughts, according to Variety.
“With all due respect, during Hollywood’s season of celebration, I hope the networks televising the upcoming awards will seriously consider NOT televising them,” Smart wrote.
“They should instead donate the revenue they would have garnered to the victims of the fires and the firefighters.”
Her heartfelt message comes as the region grapples with the devastation caused by the ongoing fires, which have already claimed lives and property across the area.
The Impact of the Los Angeles Wildfires
The wildfires have been wreaking havoc across Los Angeles, resulting in tragic loss of life and widespread destruction.
Reports from The Hollywood Reporter indicate that at least ten people have died, and nearly 10,000 homes and structures have been destroyed.
The fires, fueled by the strong Santa Ana winds, have forced around 180,000 residents to evacuate.
Among those impacted are celebrities like Paris Hilton and Billy Crystal, who have lost their homes to the inferno.
In response to the disaster, multiple entertainment industry events have either been postponed or cancelled, including the Critics Choice Awards, which will now take place on January 26th, as reported by Entertainment Weekly.
The Academy Awards and the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards have also delayed their announcements.
Additionally, production on various television shows, including The Price is Right, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and Hacks, has been halted due to safety concerns.
Potential Solutions for Award Shows
Smart’s call for networks to forgo airing these award shows has sparked a larger conversation within the entertainment community and beyond.
Some suggest a compromise—airing the award shows while allocating the advertising revenue towards fire relief efforts.
This way, the celebrations could continue, but with a meaningful contribution to those in need.
The financial implications of such a decision are enormous.
For example, the Oscars, which are broadcast by ABC, generate approximately $110 million annually.
Redirecting even a fraction of these funds could make a significant difference in providing aid to those impacted by the wildfires.
The Urgent Needs of the Community
Beyond the immediate destruction, the fires have also raised concerns about the long-term environmental and health impacts.
The air quality in Los Angeles has plummeted due to thick smoke and ash, posing serious risks to residents’ respiratory health.
Power outages have also affected more than 360,000 people, further complicating the crisis.
The scale of this disaster is unprecedented, and Los Angeles finds itself facing a battle for recovery. The entertainment industry’s response could set a powerful example for how communities can come together in times of crisis to support those in need.
Looking to the Future
As of now, it remains uncertain whether television networks will heed Smart’s call.
However, her plea emphasizes the potential for collective action during a time of crisis.
Across the globe, people are already stepping up, contributing to relief efforts through donations and raising awareness about the ongoing situation.
The resilience and solidarity shown by both local residents and global supporters will be critical in the recovery and rebuilding process for Los Angeles.
While Smart’s call for action is just one voice in the chorus, it is a reminder of the impact the entertainment industry can have in times of hardship.