The recent Southern California wildfires have claimed countless homes and dozens of lives. Prominent figures like Brad Paisley, Mel Gibson, and Jeff Bridges have shared their personal losses, while the community rallies to provide support for victims.
The Southern California wildfires have already scorched over 40,000 acres — an area larger than San Francisco — and forced more than 150,000 residents to evacuate. At least 24 lives have been lost, with the Eaton Fire alone claiming 16 victims.
While firefighters are working tirelessly on containment efforts — the Palisades Fire at 13 percent and the Eaton Fire at 33 percent — predicted wind gusts of up to 70 mph forecast between Tuesday morning and midday Wednesday pose a significant risk of “explosive fire growth,” according to the National Weather Service. The causes of the fires remain under investigation.
Among the numerous communities and individuals impacted, several prominent country music stars and actors have been affected.
Country music icon Brad Paisley shared the heartbreaking news on social media that the first house he bought with his wife, Kimberly, was destroyed in the Palisades Fire. In his Instagram post, Paisley recalled times spent there with dear friends and family, including preparing for the birth of their children and walking to nearby restaurants.
“That beautiful old house burned last night. As did most of that community. So many good people displaced, devastated, and cast out all over L.A.,” Paisley wrote. “I want to mourn the loss of a town. And acknowledge the beauty and the memories of what it was. It is all so tragic and sad.”
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Mel Gibson, known for his role in Maverick (1994), among many others, lost the Malibu home he lived in for over a decade in the Palisades Fire.
In a phone interview with NewsNation’s Elizabeth Vargas Reports, Gibson described the experience as “devastating” and revealed that the neighborhood was “completely toasted.” The actor was in Austin, Texas, recording an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience as the blaze swept through.
“I thought, I wonder if my place is still there,” Gibson told Vargas. “But when I got home, sure enough, it wasn’t there … and I said to myself, ‘Well, at least I haven’t got any of those pesky plumbing problems anymore.’ … I’ve been relieved from the burden of my stuff, because it’s all in cinders.”
Despite the loss of photographs, files, and memories, Gibson expressed gratitude that his wife, Rosalind Ross, and their son, Lars, were able to get to safety, along with all their chickens. He acknowledged the emotional toll of the disaster, calling it “kind of devastating,” but also highlighted the outpouring of generosity from those around him.
Jeff Bridges, known for his role as Rooster Cogburn in the remake of True Grit (2010), lost the home he inherited from his late parents when it was destroyed in the Palisades Fire, according to a representative who spoke to The Hollywood Reporter. Bridges had been sharing the home with his wife, Susan Geston.
Actor Billy Crystal, who starred in the western comedy City Slickers (1991), lost the home he’d shared with his wife, Janice, for 45 years.
“Every inch of our house was filled with love. Beautiful memories that can’t be taken away. We are heartbroken, of course, but with the love of our children and friends, we will get through this,” he said.
The loss is especially devastating given Crystal’s connection to the community — he and Janice were named honorary mayors of the neighborhood in 2018.
Among the tragic losses to Western history and culture is the historic home of Will Rogers, the famed Cherokee humorist, vaudeville performer, newspaper columnist, radio personality, movie star, and “cowboy philosopher.”
Although state park employees were able to save some of the cultural and historical artifacts from the estate, the 31-room ranch house and stables were completely engulfed by the Palisades Fire. All that remains of the iconic landmark are two chimneys.
Community Works To Save Livestock From Fires
The Southern California wildfires have not only devastated homes and communities but have also put a tremendous strain on animal shelters and livestock owners. The Pasadena Humane Society took in 250 pets in the first day of the fires, while Arianna Buturovic, who runs a dog rescue shelter near Los Angeles, managed to evacuate nearly 30 animals — including dogs, cats, and a pig — by quickly flagging down help from local teens with a truck. Unfortunately, she had to leave her two ponies behind, but she opened their corral so they could escape if needed.
Evacuating large animals like horses has been particularly difficult, as many owners have had limited options for transport. Some, like Julia Bagan from Southern California Equine Emergency Evacuation, have worked tirelessly to rescue horses left in danger by the flames.
Bagan rescued five horses, one of which, a young mare named Flicka, suffered severe burns and has a 50-50 chance of survival. Meredith McKenzie, meanwhile, had already taken precautionary measures by evacuating her horses before the fires began, while others had to rush their animals to emergency shelters.
Supporters Rally To Provide Aid
In response to the catastrophic wildfires, Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas announced that more than 135 firefighters, emergency management personnel, and medical staff, along with over 45 fire engines and firefighting equipment, would be sent to California to help battle the massive fires threatening Los Angeles.
“Texans know all too well the devastation wildfires can cause to our communities, and our country is stronger when we come together in times of crisis, Abbott said.
The Navajo Nation is sending a specialized team of Navajo Scouts to assist in the firefighting efforts. Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren explained in an X post that the Navajo Scouts, a dedicated group of 23 members, are highly trained and represent various communities across the Navajo Nation.
PRAYERS TO OUR BRAVE NAVAJO SCOUTS WHO ARE ON THEIR WAY TO CALIFORNIA TO FIGHT THE WILDFIRES
As more people evacuate the Los Angeles area from the blazing wildfires, our Navajo Scouts are answering the call to help fight and protect the millions of people in LA County who are… pic.twitter.com/HZUW7E1Slw
— Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren (@BuuVanNygren) January 9, 2025
Country music star Miranda Lambert is stepping up to assist displaced and injured animals affected by the wildfires. Her charity, MuttNation Foundation, is bringing back its annual Relief for Rescues fundraising event, which provides vital financial support to shelter animals impacted by natural disasters. Donations are being collected now until January 22 at Tractor Supply locations everywhere, as well as online at TractorSupply.com or via the company's mobile app.
Lambert expressed her gratitude for the support MuttNation has received. “It’s been heartbreaking to see the devastation in California unfold, and we’re grateful that our fund and the generosity of our donors has allowed us to respond quickly. One hundred percent of your support goes directly to those impacted by disasters,” she said.
Resources For Those Affected
Federal Assistance: Survivors can apply for disaster assistance through the official website launched by the state of California.
The California Fire Foundation offers disaster relief to victims and evacuees, providing financial assistance and other essential support.
American Red Cross provides shelter, food, and emotional support to those affected by the wildfires.
The Southern California Disaster Assistance is also offering aide.
Ways To Provide Support And Aid To Victims
Southern California Salvation Army: Help those affected by the wildfires by donating to the Salvation Army’s efforts in Southern California.
LAFD Foundation Emergency Fund: Funds from this foundation go to essential firefighting equipment, including emergency fire shelters and hydration packs. Donate here.
All PHOTOGRAPHY credit CAL FIRE_Official. All photos public domain.