Los Angeles Wildfires Shut Down Productions: ‘Hacks,’ ‘Suits LA,’ More Affected

by

Currently in Los Angeles, there’s a serious and urgent situation unfolding. Safety is paramount at this time, which is why productions like “Hacks” and “Suits: LA” have temporarily stopped filming due to the raging wildfires that have affected certain areas of the city over the past day.

Due to the deadline, productions for “Hacks,” “Suits: LA,” “Happy’s Place,” “Loot,” and “Ted” have chosen not to film today. NBCUniversal has taken precautions and closed their lots at Universal Studios out of an overabundance of caution due to nearby wildfires. Additionally, the Universal Studios theme park was also shut down today since the fires are too close for safe operation. Other productions affected by this include “Grey’s Anatomy” and “NCIS.

Currently writing to you from Los Angeles, I can confirm that the city is currently ablaze. Despite being fortunate enough to be situated at a distance where I won’t feel the impact of the wildfires, my heart goes out to those who aren’t so lucky. Some of my friends have families living in affected areas, and they’ve shared that they’ve lost virtually everything.

To those tuning in from afar, this unfolding disaster on TV is no light matter; it bears an unsettling resemblance to a hellish landscape or the aftermath of an apocalypse. Homes and businesses are engulfed as flames leap from one building to another, from street to street, causing widespread destruction. Authorities are urging mass evacuations today, and schools are closing due to safety concerns, leaving the area perilous for all but emergency responders. Local news channels claim this is the worst wildfire the region has ever faced, owing to its rapid spread and the multitude of fires that need extinguishing. Simultaneously, four separate fires are raging, making it impossible for firefighters to effectively contain them before they spiraled out of control. The situation is further aggravated by treacherous winds, which have accelerated the flames’ spread.

The Los Angeles Wildfires Have Resulted in Numerous Cancellations and Shutdowns

Due to the recent wildfires, numerous Hollywood events have been scrapped. The scheduled live announcement of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) nominations this morning was replaced with a press release instead. Last night, high-profile premieres planned in Los Angeles, including Jennifer Lopez’s “Unstoppable” and Leigh Whannell’s “Wolf Man,” were called off as the fire threat intensified. In the midst of composing this article, it was announced that even the premiere of “The Last Showgirl,” for which Pamela Anderson received a SAG nomination, has been canceled.

Due to unexpected wildfires, the highly-anticipated medical drama “The Pitt” has been taken off its scheduled premiere tonight. Similarly, a live press event for Tim Allen’s ABC comedy “Shifting Gears” has been called off. Various series are delaying their production start by several days to assess the fire situation. The filming of “Fallout,” airing on Prime Video, located near where some wildfires are burning, has postponed its return from holiday break for a few days, ensuring safety for the cast and crew. Additionally, tapings for shows like “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” “The Price is Right,” and “After Midnight” have been canceled as well.

Reflecting on the events unfolding, I’m struck by how secondary everything else seems compared to those who have been forced from their homes at this moment. The sight of people struggling to save their families and beloved pets is heart-wrenchingly poignant. Yet, amidst the hardship, there’s a remarkable display of solidarity and neighborly assistance that gives me hope. I send my thoughts to everyone affected during these trying times, wishing for a swift resolution to this dire situation.

Needing ideas on how to assist those impacted by the wildfires? Check out the California Fire Foundation, California Fire Relief, The Dream Center, and Friends in Deed for opportunities to make a difference.

Read More

2025-01-08 22:31