In a heartfelt move reflecting the incredible spirit of resilience, the Oscars will uniquely honor the city of Los Angeles during the upcoming 97th Academy Awards ceremony on March 2, 2024. This announcement comes in the wake of the tragic wildfires that recently devastated numerous areas in Los Angeles County, prompting the Academy to reaffirm its deep ties and commitment to the city that has served as a backdrop for countless iconic films.

In a letter addressed to Academy members, CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their solidarity with those affected by the fires and called for support for ongoing relief efforts. “Our deepest thanks to all of you for your compassion and support over the last few weeks,” they wrote, reinforcing the need for community fortitude during challenging times.

The ceremony, which will be hosted by the beloved Conan O’Brien, promises a night filled with celebration and reflection on the transformative power of filmmaking, while also embracing themes of community, collaboration, and hope. Notably, the Oscars will forgo the traditional live performances for the Best Original Song category. Instead, the focus will shift to spotlighting the songwriters through personal stories and behind-the-scenes looks at the creative processes involved in bringing these songs to life.

This year, expect nominees from the highly anticipated Spanish-language musical, *Emilia Pérez*, directed by Jacques Audiard, featuring performances that would have dazzled audiences through artists like Zoe Saldaña, Karla Sofía Gascón, and Selena Gomez. “We will celebrate their artistry through reflections from the teams who contribute to these incredible tracks, unveiling the inspiration behind the nominees,” the Academy leaders explained.

Returning this year are the cherished “Fab 5” moments, where noteworthy artists pay tribute to selected nominees, a segment that has captivated audiences in recent years with heartfelt recognition across generations of talent. These touching tributes have previously included celebrated actress Rita Moreno honoring America Ferrera for her role in *Barbie*, emphasizing the interconnectedness of film and its artists.

In a bold step forward, the Academy will also showcase the beauty and resilience of Los Angeles itself as a “city of dreams.” This dedication highlights the city’s monumental influence on the film industry and aims to celebrate both its artistic contributions and its unwavering spirit.

The conclusion of the letter reinforces a message of unity and optimism, underscoring the importance of community in the face of adversity. “There is so much more in store, including powerful musical moments that will highlight the rich history of film and its inspiring future. We hope you will join us to celebrate this extraordinary night,” Kramer and Yang stated.

Mark your calendars! The nominations for the Oscars will be unveiled on January 23, 2024, at 5:30 a.m. PT. Tune in via the Academy’s digital platforms, including Oscar.com, YouTube, and social media, as well as on ABC’s Good Morning America.