The fires currently ravaging the Los Angeles area have caused massive destruction, including the loss of several celebrity homes.
Authorities estimate that nearly 2,000 homes were destroyed, leaving behind ruins and evacuated families. Among the properties affected are those of well-known stars like Anthony Hopkins, Billy Crystal, and Leighton Meester.
The flames particularly hit the upscale neighborhoods of Pacific Palisades, Beverly Hills and Malibu, where celebrity homes are often valued at millions of dollars.
Paris Hilton’s $10 million residence was burned to the ground, as was that of Miles Teller, an actor known for his role in Top Gun: Maverick. Leighton Meester and Adam Brody, another celebrity couple, also lost their home worth an estimated $7 million.
The fire also affected iconic properties, including that of Læticia Hallyday, widow of rock legend Johnny Hallyday. The estimated value of his villa, at the origin of a symbol of the extravagance of the Californian coast, was around 15 million dollars.
Local authorities, backed by federal reinforcements, are struggling to control the flames which continue to threaten other residential neighborhoods. President Joe Biden has promised immediate aid for relief efforts and reconstruction.
The fires have also disrupted the entertainment industry, with major events like movie premieres and awards ceremonies canceled or postponed.
Economic losses, both human and material, are already in the billions of dollars, and the situation remains extremely volatile.
