Jean Smart, the Emmy-winning star of Hacks, recently made a passionate plea for networks to reconsider their priorities during Hollywood’s awards season. In light of the devastating wildfires affecting Los Angeles, Smart urged broadcasters to cancel the telecasts of upcoming awards shows and instead donate the generated revenue to support firefighters and displaced residents. This article explores her bold proposal, the broader context of the wildfires, and the potential impact of such a gesture on Hollywood and beyond.
A Bold Appeal: Jean Smart’s Instagram Call to Action
In an Instagram post, Jean Smart called for networks to “seriously consider” skipping awards show telecasts and redirecting funds to those impacted by the ongoing L.A. fires. Her statement, shared shortly after her Golden Globe win for Best Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy, struck a chord with fans and industry professionals alike.
Smart emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting the toll the fires have taken on communities, property, and the environment. She specifically highlighted the bravery and relentless efforts of firefighters battling the blazes, calling for resources to be channeled toward their support. Her message resonated as a reminder of the stark contrast between Hollywood’s celebratory season and the suffering endured by those affected by the fires.

The Wildfires’ Impact on Los Angeles
The Los Angeles area has faced relentless wildfires, with several blazes displacing residents, destroying homes, and putting immense pressure on emergency services. The Pacific Palisades fire, one of the most significant ongoing incidents, has prompted evacuations and left countless families grappling with loss and uncertainty.
The timing of these fires during awards season has drawn attention to the disparity between Hollywood’s glittering celebrations and the harsh realities faced by local communities. Smart’s proposal to cancel telecasts reflects a growing sentiment that the entertainment industry must play a more active role in addressing the crises unfolding in its own backyard.
Awards Season Adjustments Amid Crisis
Smart’s call to action coincides with notable adjustments already made by major awards organizations. The Critics Choice Awards, originally scheduled for January 12, has been postponed to January 26 due to the wildfires. Similarly, the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards opted to forgo their in-person nominations broadcast, citing an “abundance of caution.” Instead, nominations were announced via press release.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has also extended its voting period for the Oscars, acknowledging the disruption caused by the fires. These changes highlight a growing awareness of the need for sensitivity and flexibility during times of crisis.
Smart’s proposal takes this a step further, suggesting that the entertainment industry leverage its significant resources and influence to provide tangible support for affected communities.

Hollywood’s Role in Supporting Local Communities
The entertainment industry wields immense economic and cultural power, positioning it as a potential force for good in times of crisis. Smart’s call for networks to donate revenue from awards shows underscores the need for Hollywood to take a more proactive role in addressing local challenges.
Historically, the industry has rallied around charitable causes, from telethons to benefit concerts. However, Smart’s suggestion represents a shift toward direct action, encouraging networks to forgo traditional revenue streams in favor of meaningful contributions to relief efforts. Such a move would not only provide critical aid to those affected by the fires but also reinforce Hollywood’s commitment to social responsibility.
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The Potential Ripple Effect of Smart’s Proposal
If networks were to adopt Jean Smart’s proposal, the impact could extend far beyond financial support for wildfire relief. Such a gesture would send a powerful message about the entertainment industry’s priorities, potentially inspiring other sectors to take similar actions in times of crisis.
Moreover, canceling telecasts and redirecting funds could foster greater public engagement with the issues at hand, encouraging viewers to contribute to relief efforts and support environmental initiatives aimed at preventing future disasters. By prioritizing community needs over traditional programming, Hollywood could set a precedent for using its platform to drive positive change.
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Conclusion
Jean Smart’s heartfelt plea to prioritize wildfire relief over awards show telecasts challenges Hollywood to rethink its role during times of crisis. By advocating for a redirection of resources, she has sparked a vital conversation about the entertainment industry’s capacity to effect meaningful change.
As L.A. continues to grapple with the devastating impact of wildfires, Smart’s proposal serves as a reminder that compassion and action can coexist with celebration. Whether or not networks heed her call, her message has already left an indelible mark, inspiring others to consider how they too can make a difference.
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