Louisiana has been an important production hub for 21st Century Fox and the film and television industry as a whole, which is why the company saw an urgent need to respond to the damage and casualties caused by the unprecedented rains there last week. Today, 21CF is donating $100,000 to help the disaster relief efforts in the affected communities, where our production teams have lived and worked.
The donation will be directed to the Louisiana Association of United Ways’ (LAUW) Flood Fund, which has been set up to distribute flood relief donations to six local United Way member organizations operating across the region. The LAUW determines which local chapters have the greatest need and is particularly focused on the post-emergency recovery work to come.
Two of Ryan Murphy’s shows, FX Networks’ “American Horror Story” and FOX’s “Scream Queens,” have filmed in Louisiana, as will the upcoming “Katrina: American Crime Story.”
“After shooting two series in New Orleans, I feel particularly connected to the state of Louisiana and the wonderful and talented people I’ve met there,” Ryan said. “We want everyone affected by these devastating floods to know that we see you and that help is on the way.”
“Scream Queens” cast members, including Jamie Lee Curtis and Emma Roberts, joined the cause by calling on viewers to help the relief efforts:
The severe flooding in Louisiana has caused at least 13 deaths and damaged approximately 60,000 homes, and the state reports that about 102,000 survivors have registered to receive federal aid from FEMA. The American Red Cross estimates that the response will cost $30 million or more.
“More than 100,000 families throughout south Louisiana are working through the shock of the unnamed storm that flooded our state, while they clean up and come to terms with their devastating losses,” said Sarah Berthelot, president and CEO of the LAUW. “Louisiana United Ways are coordinating efforts to help meet the unmet needs of families and their communities, now and in the future. The Louisiana Association of United Ways is grateful for the generosity and partnership of 21st Century Fox during our tremendous time of need in Louisiana.”
Over the years, 21CF’s film and television studios have had a number of productions in Louisiana, most recently 20th Century Fox Film’s “Fantastic Four” and upcoming “X-Men” movie featuring Wolverine.
To donate, go to the LAUW’s website or text “HELPLA” to 313131.
