LOS ANGELES — The widespread wildfires in and around Los Angeles have had devastating impacts, claiming the homes of numerous celebrities such as Billy Crystal, Jeff Bridges, and R&B artist Jhené Aiko, along with causing significant disruptions to various entertainment events.
This weekend, three major awards ceremonies have been postponed, and the announcement of next week’s Oscar nominations has also been delayed. As of Thursday, tens of thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate, anxiously awaiting news about the fate of their homes — many of which belong to notable figures in the city.
Destructive fire incidents have already obliterated thousands of structures, with damage assessments merely beginning. Approximately 180,000 individuals in the metropolitan area have received evacuation orders, stretching from the Pacific Coast to Pasadena, a changing figure as new fires erupt.
By late Wednesday, a fire was raging in the Hollywood Hills, threatening iconic landmarks such as the Hollywood Bowl and the Dolby Theatre, home to the Academy Awards. Fortunately, that fire has been largely contained, sparing significant damage to Hollywood attractions.
Numerous celebrities have shared poignant reflections about their losses. Billy Crystal and his wife, Janice, expressed their heartbreak over the destruction of their home in Pacific Palisades, where they lived for 45 years. “We raised our children and grandchildren here, and every inch of our house was filled with love,” they stated. Despite the loss, they emphasized their gratitude for family support.
Melissa Rivers also reported losing her Pacific Palisades home. While she noted being thankful that her family is safe, she mourned the loss of important family history, although she managed to salvage a few cherished items.
Mandy Moore’s home, located about 30 miles east of the Palisades, has been severely damaged, rendering it uninhabitable. However, she was relieved to share that the main structure had remained standing. Sadly, a studio used by her husband and his brother was destroyed, along with all their musical equipment. Moore conveyed feelings of survivor’s guilt amid the ongoing loss in her community.
Jeff Bridges reported the loss of a family home in Malibu, which had belonged to their parents. Although it was not their primary residence, it still holds deep significance for the siblings. R&B singer Jhené Aiko expressed her heartbreak over her family’s home being reduced to ashes, writing on Instagram about the loss and the importance of her children’s well-being.
Paris Hilton also shared heart-wrenching sentiments following the destruction of her Malibu home, where countless cherished memories were made with her young children. Cary Elwes, known for “The Princess Bride,” confirmed his family’s safety but lamented the loss of their home to the fires.
In response to the crisis, actress Jamie Lee Curtis announced a $1 million pledge aimed at providing support for those affected by the fires. Sharing her concerns on social media, Curtis emphasized the devastation faced by her community, noting essential local resources and the numerous friends who have lost their homes. She has been collaborating with local leaders to determine the most effective use of the funds.
The Recording Academy, alongside its MusiCares charity, has also committed $1 million to support musicians impacted by these fires, reinforcing the music community’s resilience during challenging times.
The ongoing fires have significantly disrupted the Hollywood awards season, throwing plans into uncertainty. Celebrated events, such as the AFI Awards and the AARP Movies for Grownups Awards, scheduled for Friday, have been postponed. The Critics Choice Awards, initially set for Sunday, will now take place on February 26, while the Producers Guild Awards have shifted their nomination announcement to Sunday instead of Friday.
These awards are critical to films vying for recognition during the Oscar voting window. Consequently, the Oscar nominations have been postponed to January 19, with the voting window extended due to the fires.
Tragically, the flames have not only destroyed lives but also historical sites. The Palisades Charter High School, featured in numerous films, faced destruction. Furthermore, the fire ravaged the historic ranch house of Hollywood legend Will Rogers, among several other structures in the Will Rogers State Historic Park and Topanga State Park. The Topanga Ranch Motel, which dates back to 1929, also succumbed to the flames, marking a loss of not only property but also cherished history.
Rogers’ extensive ranch, established during the 1920s, covered approximately 359 acres and encompassed a 31-room house, stables, and golf courses. His wife generously donated the property to California State Parks in 1944, preserving its legacy for future generations.
