Wildfires have ravaged the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, prompting the evacuation of several Hollywood celebrities, including Mark Hamill, Mandy Moore, and James Woods. California firefighters are currently battling the wind-whipped fires that have caused widespread destruction, forcing tens of thousands to flee and straining resources as the fires continue to burn uncontained.
The Pacific Palisades area, known for its hillside celebrity residences and immortalized by the Beach Boys in their hit song 'Surfin' USA,' has been engulfed by the fires. The chaotic evacuation led to impassable roadways as people abandoned their vehicles and fled on foot, some carrying suitcases.
Hollywood's vibrant awards season was abruptly disrupted by the wildfires, with premieres being canceled, award nominations announced via press releases, and events like the AFI Awards being called off.
Celebrities Impacted by the Fires
Stars such as Jamie Lee Curtis, Adam Sandler, Ben Affleck, Tom Hanks, and Steven Spielberg have evacuated their homes in the affected area. Many are anxiously waiting to hear if their residences have survived the flames. Mandy Moore expressed her deep sadness and worry over the situation, while James Woods shared footage of the flames near his home, emphasizing the emotional toll of losing everything at once.
Impact of the Fires
Authorities have not yet provided an exact count of the structures damaged or destroyed by the wildfires, but approximately 70,000 residents are under evacuation orders, with nearly 30,000 structures at risk. The fires have consumed Temescal Canyon, a popular hiking spot, and parts of the Palisades Charter High School, known for its appearances in various Hollywood productions.
The film and TV industry in Los Angeles has also been significantly affected, with studios canceling premieres, halting productions, and closing theme parks and museums due to the smoky and windy conditions. The disruptions have extended to the cancellation of popular shows like 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!,' adding to the challenges faced by the entertainment industry in the region.
