Kaylah Walton
The ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles are causing severe threats to safety, property, and nature. In light of this risk, residents are strongly advised to evacuate without delay. Among those evacuating is Mark Hamill, famed for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker, who has also left Malibu in response to the emergency.
Hamill posted on Instagram about his hurried departure with his wife Marilou York and their dog Trixie, stating, “7pm – Evacuated Malibu so last-minute there (were) small fires on both sides of the road as we approached PCH.” They managed to reach his daughter Chelsea’s home in Hollywood at about 8:15 p.m. Hamill referred to the current fire situation as the “most horrific fire since ’93,” urging others to “stay safe.”
The wildfires ignited in Pacific Palisades and rapidly extended to Malibu and parts of Santa Monica. Reports indicate that as of Wednesday morning, the fire in Pacific Palisades is completely uncontrolled along with other ongoing blazes, such as the Eaton, Hurst, and Woodley fires. Due to the escalating situation, Governor Gavin Newsom announced a state of emergency on Tuesday evening, prompting evacuation orders for Santa Monica and Malibu.
Evacuation Experiences from Celebrities
Amid the ongoing crisis, various celebrities have taken to social platforms to share their personal evacuation experiences. Actor James Woods recently shared a video on X, depicting the destruction near his residence in Pacific Palisades. He conveyed the emotional impact of such losses, stating, “It tests your soul, losing everything at once.” In a CNN interview, Woods recounted a neighbor rescuing a 90-year-old with dementia just in time before their house was engulfed in flames, describing the scene as chaotic, with fires consuming every home around them.
Steve Guttenberg, who also resides in Pacific Palisades, spoke to CNN about his day spent helping drivers stranded on the Pacific Coast Highway, now closed due to the fire. He referred to the inferno as “the most unbelievable fire I’ve ever seen,” sharing details of the dire traffic jam. He noted, “I spent all day moving these cars up on the hill to clear the way for fire trucks.”
Chet Hanks mentioned on Instagram that “the neighborhood I grew up in is burning to the ground,” while Chris Pratt expressed appreciation for firefighters and first responders, calling them “true heroes” for their unwavering service in protecting lives and properties. Additionally, Eugene Levy, the honorary mayor of Pacific Palisades, shared insights about evacuating on Tuesday, describing the dark smoke enveloping the community as a vivid reminder of the wildfires’ devastating force.
