Less than 72 hours after the glitzy Golden Globes, Los Angeles was engulfed in one of the worst wildfires in its history. The Palisades Fire reduced Malibu to ashes, with scores of beachfront homes destroyed. Winds gusting up to 80 mph hampered ground and air-based efforts to fight the blaze.

In Pasadena, east of Los Angeles, the Eaton Fire destroyed between 200 and 500 structures, including homes, schools and places of worship. Bob Francis’ family lost the house where his father had kept memories and the dolls his wife loved. Those precious memories are now reduced to ashes. Likewise, the local Jewish community suffered greatly when its central temple burned down.

Hollywood stars lose homes due to wildfire disaster in Los Angeles

More than 70,000 residents were evacuated, with about 1,000 seeking shelter at the Pasadena Convention Center. Community solidarity brought light amid the tragedy, as many organizations and individuals came together to provide food and water. Franciscan Father Christopher used a food truck to deliver food to refugees, providing hope for the days ahead.

The fire not only destroyed people’s properties but also severely affected the artists and the Hollywood entertainment industry. Many stars lost their precious homes. 

Singer and actress Mandy Moore said her family lost their home and their children’s school in Altadena. Actor Elwes, known for “The Princess Bride,” said his family was safe but their home in Palisades was completely destroyed. Similarly, Paris Hilton lost her Malibu home, where she shared many memories with her family.

The fires also forced a number of stars, including Jamie Lee Curtis, Adam Sandler, Ben Affleck and Tom Hanks, to evacuate. James Woods, in a video shared on social media, said he had to stand in his yard to watch the fire before leaving. “Losing everything at once is really trying to test the soul,” he said.

Hollywood stars affected by wildfires. Photo: Page Six.

Iconic Los Angeles landmarks were not spared. The fire destroyed Hollywood legend Will Rogers’ historic ranch, including his 31-room home and golf course. The home, once a symbol of classic Hollywood, was reduced to ashes. Landmarks like the Topanga Ranch Motel and Palisades Charter High School, which appeared in films like “Carrie” and “Freaky Friday,” also suffered the same fate.

Hollywood’s entertainment and film production schedules have been severely disrupted. Premieres of films like “Better Man” and “The Last Showgirl” have been canceled. The Critics Choice Awards have been postponed until February 2026, while events like the Academy Awards have been pushed back. Major studios like Universal Studios and Walt Disney have had to halt filming on several series, including “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Ted Lasso” and “Doctor Odyssey.”

The disruption has not only affected businesses, but has left the entertainment industry in a difficult position as it faces the aftermath of the disaster. Yet amid the loss, a spirit of unity and hope has been a guiding light as Los Angeles rebuilds and recovers from the ashes.