Several Hollywood stars' family homes destroyed in 'unprecedented' LA wildfires

Celebrities including socialite Paris Hilton and actor Billy Crystal have seen their family homes destroyed by the devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles.

Thousands of firefighters are battling to contain the Palisades fire, which has already ravaged nearly 16,000 acres, as well as seven other blazes across southern California that threaten to cause further destruction and loss of life due to strong winds spreading embers.

At least five people have lost their lives. The city has declared a state of emergency, forcing over 70,000 people to evacuate their homes as a thick cloud of smoke and ash engulfs the metropolitan area.

A new fire has now broken out in the Hollywood Hills, posing a threat to popular tourist attractions such as the Walk of Fame. Hilton expressed her heartbreak at watching her Malibu home "burn to the ground on live TV" while watching the news with her family, including her children Phoenix and London, whom she shares with husband Carter Reum.

"This home was where we built so many precious memories. It's where Phoenix took his first steps and where we dreamed of building a lifetime of memories with London. While the loss is overwhelming, I'm holding onto gratitude that my family and pets are safe," the 43-year-old said in an Instagram post.

This comes just months after a trailer on the set of her Bad Bitch Academy music video caught fire, resulting in the loss of "so many of my favourite things destroyed", as revealed by Hilton at the time.

US actor Billy Crystal and his wife Janice are coming to terms with the loss of their beloved home of 46 years after it was ravaged by fire. In a statement released through PA news agency, they shared their profound grief: "Words cannot describe the enormity of the devastation we are witnessing and experiencing," the couple expressed, reports the Mirror.

"Janice and I lived in our home since 1979. We raised our children and grandchildren here. 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."

They also paid tribute to their local community, highlighting the resilience of Pacific Palisades: "It is our home", they said, acknowledging the strength and spirit of the area's residents. The unfortunate incident comes as Diane Warren, the acclaimed Oscar-winning songwriter, disclosed the loss of her beach house where she had resided for over thirty years, though her animals were thankfully saved.

The wildfires have led to distressing times for many, including celebrities. Mark Hamill, famed for his role in Star Wars, recounted the harrowing experience of evacuating his home, saying his family was "fleeing for our lives".

James Woods, the actor known for 'Once Upon A Time In America', spoke about the deep emotional impact of the fires, stating: "It tests your soul, losing everything at once."

Mandy Moore, star of 'This Is Us', took to Instagram to express her shock at the catastrophic damage caused by wildfires, stating: "Honestly, I'm in shock and feeling numb for all so many have lost, including my family."

She continued, revealing the personal impact: "My children's school is gone. Our favourite restaurants, leveled. So many friends and loved ones have lost everything too. Our community is broken but we will be here to rebuild together."

Meanwhile, Jamie Lee Curtis confirmed that her residence was spared, yet she grieved over the destruction of her "beloved neighbourhood" as she posted videos of the blaze on Instagram.

Reality TV personalities Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag disclosed that they had not been as fortunate, with their home succumbing to the flames. The couple, who remarried in 2009, documented the fire's progression via their Snapchat stories.

Pratt shared a harrowing update: "I'm watching our house burn down on the security cameras."

Montag conveyed her distress, saying: "So our house is on fire and we were able to get out in time, but I keep going over and over in my mind of the things I should've got, but we're out safe and that is the most important thing, and Spencer is behind me."

Later, she emotionally confessed: "I'm so sad our house has gone" lamenting the loss of "everything we worked so hard for".

This series of personal tragedies unfolded as Governor Gavin Newsom thanked President Joe Biden for his "swift response and aid to California as we work to battle these unprecedented wildfires".

Over 1,400 firefighters, backed by 267 fire engines and nine helicopters, are still at the scene, according to the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services. This comes less than a month after Malibu residents were forced to evacuate due to the Franklin Fire, a wind-driven blaze that scorched over 4,000 acres.

Celebrities including Dick Van Dyke, Cher and Jane Seymour were among those who had to flee their homes.

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