January 18, 2025: The Critics Choice Awards, originally scheduled for January 14, 2024, in Santa Monica, has been rescheduled once again due to the ongoing wildfires devastating parts of Los Angeles. After two previous delays, the event will now be held on February 7, 2024, at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, which is located near the areas most affected by the fires.
The awards ceremony, initially planned to air live on E!, was first postponed to January 26, but further fire-related concerns led to another delay. The Critics Choice Association (CCA) confirmed the new date and expressed its sympathy for those impacted by the fires.
Joey Berlin, CEO of the Critics Choice Association, shared in a statement, “This unfolding tragedy has already had a profound impact on our community. All our thoughts and prayers are with those battling the devastating fires and with all who have been affected.”
The ceremony will still take place at Barker Hangar, though the venue is near areas like the Pacific Palisades, which has seen significant property damage and thousands of evacuations. Other areas, including Pasadena-Altadena, have also been battling separate wildfires. As a result, the planned “Live from E!: Critics Choice Awards” red carpet special will be canceled.
Comedian Chelsea Handler will return as host for the third consecutive year, and the ceremony will honor top TV and film nominees, including shows like Wicked, Conclave, and Shogun. The rescheduled date of the Critics Choice Awards contributes to a broader trend of Hollywood events being impacted by the wildfires, including delayed Oscar nominations and the postponement of various premieres and parties.