Los Angeles faced a dire crisis on Wednesday as wildfires driven by hurricane-force winds engulfed neighborhoods, forcing tens of thousands to flee, including world-famous actors, musicians, and celebrities.
The fires, raging on multiple fronts, overwhelmed firefighters despite their relentless efforts. Among the hardest-hit areas was Pacific Palisades, an affluent enclave known for its multimillion-dollar homes and celebrity residents.
Emmy-winning actor James Woods shared a harrowing video on X showing flames advancing near his property. “I couldn’t believe our lovely little home in the hills held on this long. It feels like losing a loved one,” he wrote after evacuating.
“Star Wars” icon Mark Hamill revealed that he and his family fled their Malibu home with flames encroaching. “Evacuated Malibu so last-minute there were small fires on both sides of the road as we approached PCH,” he wrote on Instagram, referring to the Pacific Coast Highway. Hamill called the wildfire the “most horrific fire since ’93.”
Steve Guttenberg, known for his role in Police Academy, was seen assisting evacuations in Pacific Palisades. On live television, Guttenberg urged evacuees to leave car keys behind to facilitate the movement of vehicles blocking fire trucks. “It’s really, really important,” he stressed.
Actress Mandy Moore, star of This Is Us, evacuated with her children and pets. In an Instagram post, she expressed gratitude for first responders, writing, “Praying and grateful for the first responders.”
Reality TV stars Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt, from MTV’s The Hills, confirmed losing their home to the flames. “I’m watching our house burn down on the security cameras,” Pratt shared on Snapchat.
The wildfires have destroyed dozens of homes and displaced countless residents, marking one of the most devastating fire events in recent Los Angeles history. Officials have warned of worsening conditions as strong winds continue to fuel the blazes.
