Beyoncé has pledged $2.5 million to help people affected in the Los Angeles wildfires and postponed a major announcement out of respect.
The "Texas Hold 'Em" singer revealed after her NFL half-time show on Christmas Day that fans could expect some big news from her on January 14.
Why It Matters
Only hours ahead of the date set for her announcement Beyoncé said she would hold off "due to the devastation caused" by the wildfires in Southern California. The deadly fires have been raging for a week, destroying thousands of homes and killing at least 24 people.
What To Know
Beyoncé took to her social media accounts to post her announcement.
"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," she wrote in text posted as a photo on Instagram.
In the caption of the post, it revealed Beyoncé had donated to relief efforts via her foundation BeyGood.
"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," read the caption.
Beyoncé and her husband, rapper Jay-Z, live in Bel Air with their three children, Blue Ivy, 13, and twins Rumi and Sir, seven. The family are currently staying in Las Vegas, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
There had been much speculation about what Beyoncé was planning to announce on Tuesday. Many of the rumors focused on a potential live tour of her most recent album, the country music inspired Cowboy Carter.
There was a mixed reaction to Beyoncé's postponement in the comments section of her Instagram post. Some fans applauded her decision, while others said it may have offered some good news at a dark time.
What People Are Saying
RuPaul's Drag Race alum, Trinity K Bonet: "The best thing you could've did appreciate you thinking of others and not yourself. We all know that this is Beyoncé's Internet and all of that LA stuff would've been overshadow for days with her. Love you b."
Beyoncé fan @kingskornerpodcast: "WHAT THE FIRES GOT TO DO WITH THE ANNOUNCEMENT?? The announcement might put the fires out! 😭😭😭😭😭."
Another Beyoncé fan, @kentoure: "Why make us wait until the 14th then tell us? Should've said this before instead of having us excited."
What Happens Next
As the fires continue to ravage communities, celebrities and organizations are rallying to support recovery efforts.
English (US) ·