Transforming the Oscars: Rosanna Arquette's Vision for Hope and Healing

Last week's devastating fires in Los Angeles have left many communities shattered. Actress Rosanna Arquette, known for her role in "Desperately Seeking Susan, " has proposed a unique idea for the upcoming 2025 Oscars. Instead of just celebrating films, she wants the ceremony to become a platform for hope and support. Arquette shared her idea on the BlueSky app, suggesting that events like the SAG Awards and Grammys should also focus on raising funds for those affected by the fires. Her vision is to integrate a telethon into the Oscars, similar to the Jerry Lewis-style telethons. She imagines celebrities like Billy Crystal, who lost his home, opening the show. Nominees and presenters could dress casually and raise money in real time. Picture the best actor winner holding their Oscar in one hand and a phone in the other, taking donations from around the world. Arquette believes this could raise billions for wildfire relief. The fires have impacted people of all income levels, including Hollywood production workers already struggling with strikes and COVID. Arquette wants to honor those who risk their lives, like firefighters, teachers, and community heroes. She suggests having them on stage with the nominees, highlighting their crucial role in the city. Arquette hopes this moment can redefine Los Angeles as the true "City of Angels. " She emphasizes that funds must directly help those in need, not get lost in bureaucracy. She also draws attention to deeper issues like climate change and infrastructure problems. "This is the result of fossil fuels, " she says, "and we need to address these root causes while helping those suffering now. " The Oscars have always celebrated storytelling, but this year, Arquette thinks the story should be about unity and action. "This could be the most important Oscars ever, " she says. She hopes it becomes a global call to action, using art to rebuild lives and show what we can achieve together. The Academy has been considering a reimagined ceremony even before the fires. Arquette's idea could help redefine the purpose of awards shows. "If we don’t do something now, we’re failing our community, " she says. She believes that Hollywood’s biggest night can prove that the industry is about more than just movies—it’s about making a difference. As the 2025 Oscars draw near, the world will watch to see if Hollywood rises to the challenge. With voices like Arquette's raising important questions, there’s hope that the answer will be yes. Many nonprofit organizations and Hollywood guilds already offer disaster relief for those affected by the fires.