Hollywood On Fire

California, a land of glitz and glamour, has once again faced the wrath of nature as wildfires engulfed the state, leaving behind devastation in their wake. The latest wildfire incident, dubbed the Sunset Fire, broke out in the Hollywood Hills on Wednesday evening, ravaging approximately 17 hectares (42 acres) of land. With its cause still under investigation, the fire has not only displaced countless residents but also claimed the homes of several Hollywood celebrities. 

By Thursday afternoon, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass confirmed that the fire was contained, but the damage left behind remains significant. Among the hardest-hit were prominent figures in the entertainment industry. Here’s a look at some of the celebrities who faced the brunt of this disaster.

Paris Hilton : Paris Hilton, the renowned media personality and socialite, is currently facing significant challenges in Hollywood. Her Malibu beach house, valued at $8.4 million, was recently destroyed by the Los Angeles wildfires. Hilton expressed her devastation on social media, describing the loss as “truly indescribable” and emphasizing the irreplaceable family memories associated with the home.

While dealing with the aftermath of the wildfire, Hilton has expressed gratitude for the safety of her loved ones and appreciation for the support from her community. She has also praised the efforts of firefighters and first responders during this crisis.

Billy Crystal 

The beloved actor and comedian, best known for his role in When Harry Met Sally, lost his Pacific Palisades home, which he had owned since 1979. Crystal and his wife, Janice, expressed their heartbreak over losing a home filled with decades of cherished family memories. “We are heartbroken, but with the love of our children and friends, we will get through this,” Crystal shared in a statement to CNN. 

Mel Gibson 

The Mad Max star revealed to News Nation that his Malibu property was destroyed while he was away filming in Texas. Reflecting on the loss, Gibson said, “It’s kind of devastating… I’ve been relieved from the burden of my stuff because it’s all in cinders.” 

Jeff Bridges 

The veteran actor’s Malibu residence was reduced to ashes in the Palisades Fire. His spokesperson confirmed the news, adding that Bridges and his family are safe despite the loss. 

Cary Elwes 

Known for his role in The Princess Bride, Elwes revealed on Instagram that his family home was destroyed. “Sadly, we lost our home, but we are grateful to have survived this truly devastating fire,” he wrote. 

Milo Ventimiglia 

Fellow This Is Us star Milo Ventimiglia disclosed that his Malibu home, shared with his pregnant wife, was also destroyed. “There’s a kind of shock moment where you go, ‘Oh, this is real,’ and then you just accept the loss,” he told CBS News. 

Evacuations and Concerns 

Several other stars, including Chrissy Teigen, John Legend, James Woods, Marc Maron, and Mark Hamill, announced their evacuation amidst the growing threat. Residents in Altadena raised concerns over resource allocation, fearing that neighbourhoods with celebrity homes might be prioritized, according to Reuters. 

As the state grapples with the aftermath of these wildfires, the resilience of the affected communities remains a beacon of hope. Efforts are ongoing to aid those displaced and to investigate the causes behind this devastating event.