Kaylah Walton
Tyra Banks has shared that her residence was completely destroyed in the recent Los Angeles wildfires, which have unfortunately resulted in 28 deaths and devastated over 17,000 properties since they ignited nearly two weeks ago, on January 7.
Approximately 200,000 residents have been evacuated from Los Angeles and surrounding California areas, including Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura counties, as flames ravaged places like Pacific Palisades, Sunset Boulevard, and Hollywood Hills.
Initial estimates suggest the cost of damages could reach around $20 billion. Tyra Banks, 51, is one of those impacted by the disaster, notably recognized as the first African American woman to grace the covers of GQ and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit.
“I didn’t want to draw too much attention to myself,” Banks mentioned during an interview with Sunrise, explaining why she waited to disclose her loss. “There are so many others who really need that spotlight.”
“But I felt it was important to share the truth. We were at a friend’s house, celebrating and enjoying ourselves.”
“I kept looking at my phone, not to check on my home, but to ensure friends and family were safe and evacuating,” she added. “Then I turned to my partner and said, ‘I think something is wrong, what do you think?’”
“He nodded, and we decided to keep it to ourselves and stay present in the moment. Once we got home, we allowed ourselves to cry and process it.”
Banks loses cherished items and memories
Banks disclosed that she and her eight-year-old son divide their time between Australia and New York City.
This arrangement meant they were out of Los Angeles during the fire, offering her a small comfort.
“However, some keepsakes were lost, which is really hard to deal with.”
