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The charred remains of structures on the Universal backlot are not too far from the Gibson Ampitheatre | AP Photo/Kevork Djansezian
Universal Studios opened to the public early this afternoon, is expected to open tomorrow despite the blaze that destroyed portions of the local landmark and darkened the skies with thick smoke. With concern for the well-being of many iconic and well-known parts of the decades-old theme park on the forefront of many minds, others also have voiced concern about whether the MTV Movie Awards, slated to take place in the Studios' Gibson Ampitheatre this evening, will happen.
The word is: The show will go on!
According to cbs2.com, an MTV spokesperson said the areas the production are using have not been affected by the fire, and a Universal rep said that "operations at the amphitheater and nearby hotels" have also been unaffected--despite the presence of fire hoses and crews, the blocked roads, and the massive and spreading plume of smoke rising about the property. Maybe red carpet wags should hand out face masks along with their witty barbs, considering officials have issued smoke warnings for the area.
The 2008 MTV Movie Awards will be hosted by Mike Myers, and among the Hollywood heavyweights scheduled to take part in the festivities are Lindsay Lohan, Sarah Jessica Parker, Tom Cruise, Steve Carell, and Will Ferrell, and many more. Live performances will include Coldplay and The Pussycat Dolls.
The show airs live on MTV at 5 p.m. local time.
Previously on LAist:
Photo Essay: Universal Studios Backlot Fire
UPDATE: Universal Backlot & Buildings Continue to Burn
Universal Backlot Fire Destroys Buildings and Facades (with images of the facades pre-fire)
*Post updated at 3:45 p.m.