California Wildfires Leave Celebs Homeless: Billy Crystal, Paris Hilton, Eugene Levy Among the Impacted
Devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have destroyed over 1,100 buildings, including the homes of several celebrities like Billy Crystal, Paris Hilton, Eugene Levy, and Cary Elwes. Crystal and his wife, Janice, lost their Pacific Palisades home of 46 years, while Levy’s home was also destroyed. Hilton confirmed the loss of her Malibu property, where her son took his first steps. Other celebrities affected include Mandy Moore and John Goodman. Amid the destruction, the community’s resilience shines through, with federal aid provided for recovery efforts. The fires highlight the growing global threat of climate change and its role in fueling such disasters.
California’s wildfires have taken a tragic toll on many residents, including a host of celebrities who have lost their homes in the blazes sweeping through Los Angeles. As flames ravage the city, killing at least five people and destroying more than 1,100 buildings, some of Hollywood’s biggest names are now grappling with the heartbreaking reality of losing everything.
The Fires Rage On: Hollywood Hills at the Mercy of the Flames
Six wildfires continue to tear through Los Angeles County, causing chaos and destruction in neighborhoods, including the prestigious Pacific Palisades—home to a number of Hollywood icons. The fires have been burning since Tuesday, with the situation only worsening as the days go by. On Wednesday night, another inferno erupted in Runyon Canyon, located in the iconic Hollywood Hills, prompting an urgent evacuation of several parts of the neighborhood.
Billy Crystal’s Heartfelt Message: 46 Years of Memories Gone in an Instant
One of the most gut-wrenching stories comes from the legendary comedian Billy Crystal, who, along with his wife Janice, confirmed the loss of their home of 46 years in Pacific Palisades. A statement released by the couple on Wednesday was full of grief, yet also underscored their resilience.
“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,” they said. The Crystals went on to speak about the precious memories they created in their home, which they’ve lived in since 1979. Despite the heartbreak, they vow to push forward with the support of their loved ones, holding on to the love that filled every corner of their home.
“The Pacific Palisades is a resilient community of amazing people, and we know in time it will rise again,” they added, offering hope for the future.
Devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have destroyed over 1,100 buildings, including the homes of several celebrities like Billy Crystal, Paris Hilton, Eugene Levy, and Cary Elwes. Crystal and his wife, Janice, lost their Pacific Palisades home of 46 years, while Levy’s home was also destroyed. Hilton confirmed the loss of her Malibu property, where her son took his first steps. Other celebrities affected include Mandy Moore and John Goodman. Amid the destruction, the community’s resilience shines through, with federal aid provided for recovery efforts. The fires highlight the growing global threat of climate change and its role in fueling such disasters.
Eugene Levy and Other Stars Join the List of Victims
The devastating fires also claimed the home of Eugene Levy, the actor best known for Schitt’s Creek, who serves as the honorary mayor of Pacific Palisades. Levy, still in shock, has yet to comment officially on the loss, but earlier in the week, he spoke to the press while stuck in evacuation traffic. “I couldn’t see any flames, but the smoke was very dark,” he recounted, giving us a glimpse of the scale of the disaster.
Meanwhile, actor Cary Elwes shared the sad news that his Malibu home had been destroyed in the fire. Although devastated, Elwes expressed gratitude that his family was safe. “We are grateful to have survived this truly devastating fire,” he wrote on social media, extending his thanks to the first responders working tirelessly through the night.
Devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have destroyed over 1,100 buildings, including the homes of several celebrities like Billy Crystal, Paris Hilton, Eugene Levy, and Cary Elwes. Crystal and his wife, Janice, lost their Pacific Palisades home of 46 years, while Levy’s home was also destroyed. Hilton confirmed the loss of her Malibu property, where her son took his first steps. Other celebrities affected include Mandy Moore and John Goodman. Amid the destruction, the community’s resilience shines through, with federal aid provided for recovery efforts. The fires highlight the growing global threat of climate change and its role in fueling such disasters.
Mandy Moore, Paris Hilton, and More Celebs Speak Out
Singer and actress Mandy Moore took to Instagram to share a video of the wreckage in Altadena near Pasadena, expressing her disbelief and sorrow. “Honestly, I’m in shock and feeling numb for all so many have lost,” she wrote. “Our community is broken, but we will rebuild together.”
Paris Hilton also shared her heartbreak as she confirmed that her Malibu home—where her son had taken his first steps—was one of the many properties lost to the flames. “The devastation is unimaginable,” she said, expressing solidarity with those waking up to a day without a home.
Other celebrities, including John Goodman, James Woods, Heidi Montag, and Diane Warren, have also lost their homes in the fires, with their personal tragedies adding to the collective heartbreak.
Community Resilience and Support Amidst the Chaos
While these stories highlight the personal losses of some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, the entire community has been impacted. However, amid the devastation, there is a sense of hope. Jamie Lee Curtis, whose own home survived the flames, shared her sorrow as she reported the destruction of a local church that had meant a great deal to her.
As the fires continue to wreak havoc, the entertainment industry has been halted in its tracks. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended the deadline for Oscar nominations by two days, and the Critics Choice awards, scheduled for Sunday, have been rescheduled for later in January.
A Global Crisis: How Climate Change Fuels Wildfire Disaster
While the fires rage on, their increasing frequency and intensity point to a larger, global issue. Experts agree that human-caused climate breakdown is responsible for a higher likelihood of such catastrophic fires. With a combination of extreme heat, drought, and strong winds, the wildfire season is now extending by two weeks on average, wreaking havoc in regions from southern Europe to Australia.
Federal Aid and Relief Efforts: A Glimmer of Hope
In response to the disaster, President Joe Biden has signed off on a federal disaster declaration, unlocking federal funding for affected individuals. This funding will go towards temporary housing, home repairs, and low-cost loans for those facing property losses.
As the flames rage on and recovery begins, one thing is clear: in the face of such profound loss, the resilience of the people affected—and the global support—remains unwavering. The road ahead will be long, but with the strength of the community and the support of first responders, there is hope for a brighter future.
The wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles have proven to be a heartbreaking catastrophe, not only claiming lives and livelihoods but also devastating communities, including Hollywood’s elite. Celebrities like Billy Crystal, Paris Hilton, and Eugene Levy have felt the sting of loss, with homes, memories, and a sense of safety destroyed in an instant. However, amidst the destruction, there is a sense of solidarity and resilience. The swift response from first responders and the support of federal aid are critical as the affected communities begin the arduous process of rebuilding. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change’s growing impact.
Featured Image/Video Credit: people.com
fox.com
npr.org
