Wildfires have torn through the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in Los Angeles, an area known for its celebrity residents, including Ben Affleck, Tom Hanks, Reese Witherspoon, Michael Keaton, Adam Sandler, Miles Teller, and Eugene Levy. 

The flames began in the Pacific Palisades and quickly swept down the Pacific Coast Highway toward Malibu, forcing evacuations. At least six wildfires are burning in Los Angeles County, and authorities fear the death toll may rise as already five people are confirmed dead.

How were the celebrities affected by the Wildfire?

Celebrities have been sharing their experiences on social media, narrating how quickly the fire had spread and the immediate danger it posed.

Mark Hamill, the Star Wars actor, shared a post on Instagram where he said that he and his wife, Marilou, with their dog Trixie, had to evacuate their Malibu home. "most horrific fire since '93," he added, describing the scene. "Evacuated Malibu so last-minute there were small fires on both sides of the road as we approached PCH.”

Schitt's Creek actor Eugene Levy shared his own close call. When speaking to The Los Angeles Times, he described being unable to leave the area. 

“The smoke looked pretty black and intense over Temescal. I couldn’t see any flames but the smoke was very dark,” he said, recalling the urgency of the situation.

Chet Hanks, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson's son, vented his distress as he posted pictures of the destruction in his childhood neighborhood. On social media, he posted, “The neighborhood I grew up in is burning to the ground rn. Pray for the Palisades.”

Jamie Lee Curtis, the Halloween star, posted on Instagram that her family was safe but that she was scared for the rest of the community. “My community and possibly my home is on fire. My family is safe. Many of my friends will lose their homes. Many other communities as well,” she wrote. “There are so many conflicting reports. With all the technology there seems to be very little information. Please post facts! It will help those wondering!”

Other public figures have been affected by the fires as well. Oscar-nominated actor James Woods confirmed that he and his family managed to get out safely from the Palisades. 

Songwriter Diane Warren shared an emotional post on Instagram, revealing that her beloved beach house of nearly 30 years was likely destroyed in the flames. She wrote, “It looks like it was lost in the fire last nite. There’s a rainbow shining on it which I’m taking as a sign of hope for all creatures who have been affected by this tragedy. The animals and the rescue ranch are OK tho which is the most important thing. Stay safe everyone.”

As the wildfires continue to ravage Los Angeles, local officials and residents are left to deal with the emotional and physical toll. The disaster is not only a high-profile issue but also has affected the greater community, where many fear for their homes and loved ones. As of now, it is hard to say when the situation will come under complete control and if the destruction will increase. Meanwhile, the main goal is to help those affected, ensure safety for the community, and restore damage caused by such destructive fires.