Human-caused climate breakdown has intensified wildfire risks across the globe, leading to more frequent and expansive fires in regions such as southern Europe, northern Eurasia, the United States, and Australia. This alarming trend has extended the average wildfire season by approximately two weeks. In Los Angeles, the severity of this crisis was tragically underscored as six wildfires tore through Los Angeles County, claiming at least five lives and destroying over 1,100 buildings.
Among the hardest hit areas was Pacific Palisades, an affluent neighborhood that is home to numerous celebrities. The fires left a path of destruction, displacing many residents including notable Hollywood figures. Billy Crystal and his wife, Janice, saw their home of 46 years incinerated. Paris Hilton also lost her Malibu residence, a place of cherished memories where her young son took his first steps. Similarly, Eugene Levy's Pacific Palisades home was consumed by the flames.
“Words cannot describe the enormity of the devastation we are witnessing and experiencing. We ache for our friends and neighbors who have also lost their homes and businesses in this tragedy,” said Billy Crystal.
The fires' impact reverberated beyond personal losses. The Critics Choice Awards, initially scheduled for Sunday, have been postponed to January 26. In response to the crisis, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences extended the deadline for Oscar nomination voting by two days. President Joe Biden has declared a federal disaster, ensuring funds are available to those affected.
“The devastation is unimaginable. To know so many are waking up today without the place they called home is truly heartbreaking,” expressed Paris Hilton.
Mandy Moore took to Instagram to document the ruined streets of Altadena near Pasadena, showcasing the fires' extensive reach. Meanwhile, Jamie Lee Curtis shared that while her home survived, the Palisades church she once attended for sobriety meetings was not as fortunate.
“Our beloved neighborhood is gone. Our home is safe. So many others have lost everything,” Jamie Lee Curtis remarked.
Billy Crystal recounted the deep personal loss of his family home but also expressed gratitude for the community’s resilience and support from loved ones.
“Janice and I lived in our home since 1979. We raised our children and grandchildren here. Every inch of our house was filled with love. Beautiful memories that can’t be taken away. We are heartbroken of course but with the love of our children and friends we will get through this,” he stated.
“We pray for the safety of the fire fighters and first responders. The Pacific Palisades is a resilient community of amazing people and we know in time it will rise again. It is our home,” added Billy Crystal.
Cary Elwes also suffered a significant loss, expressing gratitude for surviving despite his home's destruction.
“Sadly we did lose our home but we are grateful to have survived this truly devastating fire,” shared Cary Elwes.
The emotional toll on residents is palpable, as evidenced by Mandy Moore's reaction to the widespread devastation experienced by her community.
“Honestly, I’m in shock and feeling numb for all so many have lost, including my family,” she said.