Ben Affleck was seen returning to his Pacific Palisades home on Wednesday, hours after narrowly escaping the flames of the massive Palisades Fire that has ravaged one of Los Angeles' wealthiest neighborhoods. Despite an evacuation advisory, Affleck was spotted driving home from his office, raising eyebrows about the situation's urgency.
The Palisades Fire erupted Tuesday, January 7, in the Santa Monica Mountains and has consumed more than 25,000 acres, making it one of the most destructive fires in Los Angeles history. With 0% containment as of Wednesday, January 8, evening, the blaze has forced tens of thousands of residents to flee their homes, with at least five confirmed fatalities and countless injuries reported.
The Start of the Pacific Palisades Fire
The fire began around 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 7, in the dry and windy conditions that followed a period of unusually low rainfall. By 10:20 a.m., the fire had spread to 10 acres; just 12 minutes later, it had engulfed 200 acres. "This fire moved with unprecedented speed," said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. Strong winds and dry vegetation created the perfect storm for what the Wildfire Alliance has now predicted will result in economic losses exceeding $50 billion.
Within hours, the blaze reached the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, known for its breathtaking views and celebrity residents. Two other major wildfires in the region—the Eaton Fire and the Hurst Fire—also wreaked havoc.
Over 150,000 residents remain under evacuation orders, and at least 1,500 structures have been destroyed. The fires have led to severe injuries, mostly burns, as first responders and the National Guard work tirelessly to battle the flames.
Celebrities on High Alert
Pacific Palisades is home to some of Hollywood's biggest names, many of whom have been impacted by the fire. Ben Affleck, who owns a sprawling mansion in the area, visited the home of his ex-wife, Jennifer Garner, whose residence was not yet under evacuation orders.
Other celebrities, including Jennifer Aniston, Bradley Cooper, Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson, Reese Witherspoon, Adam Sandler, Guillermo del Toro, and Michael Keaton, have been put on high alert as the fires threaten their multimillion-dollar homes.
Chet Hanks, son of Tom Hanks, expressed his heartbreak over the devastation, saying, "The neighborhood I grew up in is burning to the ground."
Chris Pratt praised the heroic efforts of first responders, stating, "Thank you to the brave firefighters and first responders who are working tirelessly to protect lives, homes, and wildlife as they battle fast-moving wildfires."
Actress Zoe Saldaña also expressed her sympathy: "Our thoughts and sympathies are with all those affected by the devastating fires in Southern California, particularly those who have lost their homes."
Jessica Alba (reportedly divorcing from Cash Warren) and Jamie Lee Curtis joined the chorus of concern. Alba wrote on social media, "Devastating—so many in our community experiencing the unimaginable. We are praying for you. We love you. Beyond grateful for the first responders who are on the ground putting their lives at risk—we pray for your safety." Curtis, who is also affected by the fires, called for clarity amidst the chaos: "My community and possibly my home are on fire. My family is safe. Many of my friends will lose their homes. With all the technology available, there seems to be very little information. PLEASE POST FACTS! IT WILL HELP THOSE WHO ARE WONDERING!"
Unprecedented Challenges Ahead
The Pacific Palisades Fire marks the first January since 2021 that Los Angeles has faced a red flag warning due to extreme fire risk. This late-season wildfire has increased the unpredictability of California's fire season, as climate change and prolonged drought conditions continue to exacerbate the risk.
Firefighters remain on the front lines as the fires rage on, battling against fierce winds and relentless flames. While high-profile residents may have the resources to rebuild, they and thousands of others in Southern California are left to grapple with the devastating loss of their loved ones, homes, livelihoods, and beloved heirlooms.