Los Angeles’ entertainment industry faced a significant setback this week as raging wildfires forced the suspension of production on numerous high-profile TV series, including Fallout Season 2, Abbott Elementary, Grey’s Anatomy, Hacks, and Suits: L.A.. Fires in Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and Sylmar have burned more than 10,000 acres, with hazardous air quality and emergency conditions prompting FilmLA to revoke permits in multiple areas, including Altadena, La Crescenta, and La Cañada Flintridge.

FilmLA stated that “personnel resources ordinarily available to support film production may not be available during the local State of Emergency.” While most soundstages are outside the immediate fire zones, health and safety concerns have led to widespread production delays.

Major Studios Respond to the Crisis

NBCUniversal announced the suspension of production on Hacks, Loot, Ted, Suits: L.A., and Happy’s Place, while Amazon postponed the filming of Fallout Season 2 in Santa Clarita, tentatively rescheduling for later this week. CBS Studios halted work on NCIS, NCIS: Origins, Poppa’s House, The Neighborhood, and After Midnight.

Disney-20th pulled the plug on productions like Doctor Odyssey and Grey’s Anatomy, while Warner Bros. closed its Burbank lot, halting Abbott Elementary, All-American, and other projects. Additionally, premieres and high-profile events, including the Critics Choice Awards and the BAFTA Tea, were postponed or canceled due to safety concerns.

A Reminder of Environmental Challenges for Filmmakers

The wildfires, which have claimed lives and destroyed hundreds of structures, serve as a stark reminder of the increasing environmental challenges facing productions in California. As the state grapples with the impact of climate change, disruptions like these are becoming more common, underscoring the importance of adaptive production strategies and alternative filming hubs.

With over 10,000 acres burned and production halted across the region, the L.A. fires have left a significant mark on the entertainment industry, pausing beloved shows and creating ripple effects throughout Hollywood.