Beyoncé has postponed a highly anticipated announcement in light of the devastation caused by wildfires near Los Angeles. On Tuesday, the singer shared on Instagram that the announcement, originally planned for January 14, would be delayed.
Fans had speculated that the news might involve a new album or tour dates, following her teaser of a project after her NFL halftime performance on Christmas Day.
In her post, Beyoncé wrote over a black screen: “The January 14th announcement will be postponed to a later date due to the devastation caused by the ongoing wildfires around areas of Los Angeles. I continue to pray for healing and rebuilding for the families suffering from trauma and loss. We are so blessed to have brave first responders who continue to work tirelessly to protect the Los Angeles community. To join our efforts in supporting those impacted, please visit @BEYGOOD. Love, B.”
The star captioned the post: “The BeyGOOD LA Fire Relief Fund has donated $2.5 million to directly support families who lost their homes and community organizations at the forefront of relief. Please join us in supporting with whatever you can. Link in bio.”
Beyoncé’s announcement comes as officials warn that winds scattering ash could undermine progress in containing the wildfires.
On Sunday, her BeyGOOD foundation launched the LA Fire Relief Fund, aimed at aiding families in the Altadena/Pasadena area who lost their homes and supporting churches and community centers addressing immediate needs.
Founded in 2013, the BeyGOOD charity focuses on economic equity and supports marginalized and under-resourced programs.
The tragedy also affected Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles, who revealed last week that her Malibu bungalow was destroyed in the fires. She shared, “It was my favorite place, my sanctuary, my sacred happy place. Now it is gone. God bless all the brave men and women in our fire department who risked their lives in dangerous conditions.”
Beyoncé’s announcement isn’t the only delay; the Oscars nominations have also been postponed to January 23, with the ceremony still scheduled for March 2 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.