Los Angeles [US]: In a heartfelt gesture, the Academy paid tribute to the brave firefighters who helped combat the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, during the Oscars ceremony on Sunday night.
Host Conan O’Brien welcomed a team of firefighters to the stage, receiving a standing ovation from the audience.
“On behalf of everyone in greater Los Angeles, thank you for all you do,” O’Brien said, before inviting several firefighters to share a few words.
In addition to the emotional tribute, the firefighters lightened the mood with some humor, leaving the audience in splits, as reported by Variety.
Los Angeles Fire Department captain Erik Scott set the tone with a witty remark:
“Our hearts go out to those who have lost their homes,” he said. “And I’m talking about the producers of ‘Joker 2.'”
Even O’Brien was impressed by the joke, responding, “Damn, best delivery of the night.”
Following Scott, LAFD pilot Jonas Johnson took the mic and aimed a light-hearted jab at “A Complete Unknown,” a musical biopic about the early life of Bob Dylan.
“To play Bob Dylan, Timothée Chalamet learned how to sing,” Johnson quipped. “In fact, his singing was so good, he almost lost the part.”
This is not the first time Los Angeles firefighters have received public appreciation. They were also warmly welcomed last month at the Grammy Awards for their heroic efforts.
The wildfires, which began earlier this month, have caused widespread destruction, claiming the lives of at least 25 people and forcing over 105,000 residents to evacuate their homes. The Academy’s gesture was seen as a small but powerful way to acknowledge the sacrifices and bravery of the firefighters who continue to battle these blazes.