The Los Angeles entertainment industry is built on highly skilled freelancers and independent contractors who power its film, television, and musical entertainment projects. However, these workers operate in a volatile environment where job security is almost nonexistent, and their income is heavily project-dependent. The recent wildfires have added another layer of devastation, displacing thousands of workers and destroying homes, sets, and production facilities.
“Losing a home is more than just losing a roof over your head – it also means you lose stability, security, and in many cases, the tools you need to work,”
said an industry insider. This sentiment is echoed by many who have experienced the devastating impact of wildfires on their livelihoods. The wildfires come after a five-year period of COVID, two devastating strikes, and the bursting of the streaming bubble. According to Otis College of Art and Design research, employment in California’s film, television, and sound sector had dropped nearly 30% between 2022 and 2024. Researchers attributed this slump to a combination of these factors.
- COVID-19 pandemic: Movie theaters and production shut down, impacting film and television projects.
- 2023 writers and actors strikes: Halted projects, delayed film releases, and cut into box office revenue.
- Bursting of the streaming bubble: Streamers reevaluated content strategies, leading to massive layoffs and project cancellations.
These factors, combined with the recent wildfires, have created a perfect storm that has devastated the LA entertainment industry. The loss of homes and infrastructure has left many workers without the stability and security they need to continue their work. Key Challenges
* Job security is almost nonexistent, with income heavily dependent on project availability
* Gig economy workers lack benefits, severance packages, and unemployment safety nets
* Loss of homes and infrastructure means loss of tools, scripts, and other essential resources
* Rebuilding is a complex process that requires financial and emotional support
To address these challenges, two organizations are stepping up to provide support to displaced workers and small business owners in the entertainment industry. The National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) is focusing on financial recovery and stability, while the California Society of CPAs is offering direct financial assistance and pro bono consulting services.
- NABA Disaster Information Hub: A resource for individuals to find disaster resources and instructional webinars
- CalCPA Disaster Recovery resources: Direct financial assistance and pro bono consulting services for CPAs and finance professionals
To make a difference, individuals can take the following steps:
- Donate to local relief funds: Organizations like the Entertainment Community Fund, California Fire Foundation, and Red Cross LA provide immediate assistance to those displaced or affected
- Support impacted businesses: Many small studios, rental houses, and creative vendors lose revenue during wildfires; seek out and support these businesses once they reopen
- Share resources: Use your platform to amplify verified relief efforts, fundraisers, or mutual aid lists
- Volunteer: Join community cleanup efforts, deliver meals, or offer temporary housing support via platforms like Airbnb’s emergency housing program
- Offer pro bono financial services: CPAs and financial advisors can volunteer their time to help affected workers apply for emergency assistance, file insurance claims, or restructure debt
- Help production companies and studios navigate business interruption insurance: Financial pros can provide vital guidance with organizing claims and documenting losses
- Assist nonprofits with emergency budgeting: Many nonprofit arts organizations will be hit hard by fire-related shutdowns; accountants can assist with cash flow forecasting, grant applications, or budget adjustments
- Host financial literacy webinars: Partner with guilds, unions, or community centers to offer freelancers workshops about managing disaster-related disruptions, taxes, and rebuilding savings
- Advocate for disaster-resilient policies: Use your professional voice to push for better financial safety nets in the entertainment industry
- Get involved: Consider joining the California Society of CPAs and the National Association of Black Accountants; ask about NABA’s Disaster Information Hub and CalCPA’s Disaster Recovery resources
The Los Angeles entertainment industry is a vibrant and creative community that needs support during this challenging time. By taking action, individuals can help ensure that the people who make it all happen have the stability and security they need to continue their work.
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