A series of fast-moving wildfires have wreaked havoc in Southern California, forcing thousands of residents, including numerous celebrities, to evacuate their homes as flames continue to rage across the Los Angeles area. As of Wednesday, January 8, at least five fires have torn through communities in the region, consuming thousands of acres of land and leaving widespread destruction in their wake.
The firestorm began on Tuesday, January 7, with the Pacific Palisades fire, which quickly grew to nearly 3,000 acres by midday. The community, known for its affluent residents and picturesque views, was devastated by the blaze. Pacific Palisades resident Maria Shriver, a well-known journalist and former first lady of California, posted on Instagram, describing the destruction as “heartbreaking, devastating, beyond belief.”
“Everything is gone. Our neighborhood, our restaurants. All our friends have lost everything,” Shriver wrote, offering a glimpse into the tragedy unfolding in her neighborhood.
Shortly after, the Eaton Fire—also known as the Close Fire—began burning in the northern part of Los Angeles around 6:30 p.m. By the next morning, it had spread to an alarming 10,000 acres. The Woodley Fire, which ignited around 6:15 a.m. on January 8, scorched at least 75 acres, while the Hurst Fire, which started around 10:30 p.m. on January 7, grew by about 500 acres overnight. Additionally, the Tyler Fire near Coachella, though 50% contained, remains a significant concern as firefighters battle its spread.
Among the thousands displaced by these fires are several high-profile celebrities who have long called the Los Angeles area home. Many have shared their personal experiences on social media, expressing gratitude for their safety while lamenting the loss of their homes and communities.
Cameron Mathison Shares Heartbreak Over Home Loss
Soap opera star Cameron Mathison shared a video of the devastation that befell his home, expressing his shock and sadness. “We are safe, but this is what’s left of our beautiful home,” Mathison wrote on Instagram, alongside footage showing the charred remains of the property. He added, “Our home where our kids were raised and where they wanted to raise their own someday.”
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Mathison thanked followers for their support and prayers but emphasized that he could not respond to everyone individually. “Sending so many prayers to everyone being affected by these fires,” he added.
Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag Confirm Loss
Former The Hills stars Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag also shared the painful news that their home had been destroyed by the flames. In a TikTok video, Pratt called the event a “nightmare,” while Montag posted a follow-up video, expressing her gratitude for their safety but acknowledging the immense loss. “Thank God we are safe… it’s just… no words,” Montag said.
@spencerpratt Nightmare came true
Kate Beckinsale Mourns Loss of Pacific Palisades Community
Actress Kate Beckinsale, who lived in Pacific Palisades with her daughter, described her heartbreak over the destruction of the community that had been a significant part of their lives. “My daughter and I lived there for most of her childhood and most of her childhood is gone,” Beckinsale wrote. “Her primary school, every shop or restaurant we used to go to with my parents and Michael’s parents—and devastatingly, most of her friends’ homes. My heart is broken.”
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Beckinsale, who has been active in offering support to those affected by the fires, also expressed her concern for the community’s families and animals. “I’m weeping for all of the people and pets involved, so many of them I know,” she wrote. “This is just like hell.”
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Mandy Moore Prays for Community Amid Uncertainty
Actress and singer Mandy Moore, who was also forced to evacuate her home, expressed her sorrow and gratitude. “Grateful for the kindness of friends that we had a place to land last night,” Moore wrote on Instagram. “Trying to shield the kids from the immense sadness and worry I feel. Praying for everyone in our beautiful city.”
Moore, whose home is located in one of the affected areas, admitted she was unsure if her house had survived the fire. “So gutted for the destruction and loss,” she said.
Other Celebrities Reflect on the Crisis
Several other celebrities have shared their own stories of evacuation and loss. Chef Sandra Lee, who lives in Malibu, posted an emotional message about her cherished home. “My home in Malibu has got me through some of the darkest moments in my life,” Lee shared on Instagram. “As the fire draws closer, I pray for it—and I pray for everyone in Los Angeles right now.”
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JJ Redick, a former NBA player and current sports analyst, also expressed concern for his family, who were evacuated from their home in Pacific Palisades. Redick sent thoughts and prayers to everyone affected, including his wife’s family, who had also evacuated the area.
Actor Mark Hamill, best known for his role as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, shared a personal update with followers, revealing that he and his wife had been evacuated from their Malibu home. “Fleeing for our lives,” Hamill wrote, describing the fires as “the most horrific fires since ’93.”
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Celebrities Offer Support, Urge Community to Stay Safe
Other notable figures, including Eugene Levy, James Woods, Jennifer Love Hewitt, and Steve Guttenberg, also expressed their concern for those affected by the fires. Many have used their platforms to thank first responders and offer assistance to those in need.
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Levy, who had to evacuate his home, shared his experiences navigating through thick smoke, while Woods offered gratitude after successfully evacuating his property. Jennifer Love Hewitt, whose home was also in danger, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, praying for her home and the safety of her children.
Steve Guttenberg, star of Police Academy and Three Men and a Baby, took action by assisting the Los Angeles Fire Department with evacuations in Pacific Palisades. He encouraged residents to leave their car keys in their vehicles so fire crews could move them to clear paths for emergency operations.
As the fires continue to devastate the region, the residents of Southern California, including many celebrities, are left grappling with the loss of their homes and communities. Despite the destruction, there remains a strong sense of solidarity and hope as people come together to support each other in this difficult time.
