With homes destroyed, hundreds of thousands evacuated, celebrities are coming together to showcase compassion and solidarity in the face of crisis
Multiple fires have broken out in Southern California in the past three days, destroying thousands of homes, including those of Paris Hilton, Billy Crystal, Eugene Levy, Mandy Moore and many others, and forcing over 180,000 people to evacuate.
Amid the chaos, stories of solidarity and resilience have emerged, with celebrities stepping up to support each other as well as their communities. From calling for donations to releasing help information, the entertainment industry shows that camaraderie and compassion can prevail in the face of an emergency.
Here are some stars who have spoken up on the devastation.
William McNamara rescues animals
After seeing what looked like “an atomic bomb” go off, actor and animal rights activist William McNamara jumped into his car and drove to Pacific Palisades to help rescue animals and pets. He also told an MSNB reporter that those evacuating should put signs on their windows alerting rescues to any pets that might be left inside.
McNamara assisted in animal rescue during the 2018 Woolsey Fire.
Jamie Lee Curtis pledges US$1 million to relief efforts
Oscar winner Jamie Lee Curtis, who also lost her home in the fires, has pledged to donate US$1 million to relief efforts. She also spoke out about the wildfires on The Tonight Show and encouraged others to donate to the Red Cross.
Jean Smart calls on networks to donate their revenue
The multiple Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning actress posted on Instagram: “ATTENTION! With ALL due respect, during Hollywood’s season of celebration, I hope any of the networks televising the upcoming awards will seriously consider NOT televising them and donating the revenue they would have garnered to the victims of the fires and the firefighters.”
Steve Guttenberg is hands-on helping his neighbourhood
Three Men And a Baby star Steve Guttenberg was caught on camera by a local news channel urging residents to evacuate and leave their keys in their cars so first responders could progress quickly. In a separate interview with CNN, he also revealed how he helped evacuate a neighbour’s pets.
Anya Taylor-Joy is urging people to be prepared
Photo: Instagram / @anyataylorjoy
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On Instagram Stories, the Queen’s Gambit star Anya Taylor-Joy advised Los Angeles residents to ready go-bags and to prepare an air purifier. “Charge your phones. Leave water outside for the animals. Stay alert. My heart breaks for this city and those who have lost their homes. Only love,” she continued.
The Duke And Duchess of Sussex have opened their home
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle released a statement on Sussex.com. “In the last few days, wildfires in Southern California have raged through neighbourhoods and devastated families, homes, schools, medical care centres, and so much more—affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life. A state of emergency has been issued. If you feel compelled to help, here are some resources and ideas.”
The couple also encouraged people to support Jose Andres’ World Central Kitchen, which is feeding first responders and victims, CAL Fire, and the LA Fire Department Foundation. They also called for donations to the American Red Cross.
Currently, they’ve opened their Montecito home to displaced friends and have been coordinating with World Central Kitchen to provide essential supplies and aid.