Wildfires have swept across Southern California, leaving a trail of destruction and displacing tens of thousands of residents. The fires began on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 as reported by USA Today.
According to ABC News, at least five people have died, and several others have been injured as multiple fires, driven by dry conditions and strong winds, spread rapidly across Los Angeles and nearby areas.
The Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades alone has destroyed over 300 buildings, burned nearly 16,000 acres, and put more than 13,000 properties at risk.
Among those affected are several celebrities who have lost their homes or were forced to flee. Stars such as Mark Hamill, Mandy Moore, Paris Hilton, and James Woods shared their experiences and thanked the firefighters battling the blazes.
Actor Cary Elwes, best known for The Princess Bride, shared his family's ordeal on Instagram. “Sadly, we did lose our home, but we are grateful to have survived this truly devastating fire,” he wrote, expressing relief that his loved ones were safe despite the loss of their house in the coastal blaze.
Paris Hilton took to Instagram to post a video showing the destruction of her Malibu home. “This home was where we built so many precious memories. It’s where Phoenix took his first steps and where we dreamed of building a lifetime of memories with London,” she said, referring to her young children. She added, “The devastation is unimaginable. Knowing so many have lost the place they called home is truly heartbreaking.”
Jamie Lee Curtis also confirmed that her family was safe but feared for her neighbourhood, which was dangerously close to the fire. “It’s a terrifying situation,” she said in an Instagram post, adding, “I am grateful to the firefighters and all the good Samaritans helping people get out of harm’s way.”
Mandy Moore, who evacuated with her family, described the emotional toll of the disaster. “We’re trying to shield the kids from the immense sadness and worry,” she wrote in her Instagram story. Moore further shared uncertainty about whether her home survived, adding, “So gutted for the destruction and loss.”
Billy Crystal and his wife, Janice, lost their home in Pacific Palisades, where they had lived for over four decades. In a statement shared with ABC News, Crystal said, “Words cannot describe the enormity of the devastation we are witnessing. Janice and I raised our children and grandchildren in that home, and every inch of it was filled with love and memories that cannot be erased.” He thanked their family and friends for their support during this difficult time.
Cameron Mathison, famous for his role in General Hospital, shared a heartbreaking video showing what was left of his home after the fire. “We are safe, but this is what’s left of our beautiful home, the place where our kids were raised and where they dreamed of raising their own someday,” he wrote.
Josh Gad, who voices Olaf in Frozen, shared a video of the blazing fire on Instagram. “I hope everyone is staying safe tonight in the affected areas of Los Angeles,” he wrote. He praised the firefighters and emergency workers, saying, “My deepest gratitude goes out to our brave fire and rescue forces who are doing everything in their power to keep us safe.”
Actor Chris Pratt also conveyed support for those affected, calling the situation “devastating.” He posted a series of photos showing the extent of the damage and wrote, “Thank you to the brave firefighters and first responders who are working tirelessly to protect lives, homes, and wildlife. You are true heroes, and we are endlessly grateful.”
Mark Hamill, known for his role in Star Wars, revealed that his family evacuated from Malibu to his daughter’s house for safety. He urged his followers to stay alert, writing, “STAY SAFE!”
James Woods shared his emotions after losing his home, calling it a painful experience. “It feels like losing a loved one,” he wrote in a post on X. He thanked the friends and neighbours who had offered their care and kindness, adding, “There is no possession as priceless as friends and good neighbours during a tragedy. I can’t believe the blessings we enjoy, and I am humbly grateful.”
The wildfires have also affected the entertainment industry. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences extended its Oscar voting deadline by two days due to the fires. Meanwhile, the Critics Choice Awards, originally set for Sunday, have been postponed to 26 January.