Mel Gibson ‘Devastated’ After Losing His Childhood Malibu Home In LA Wildfires – News18

Last Updated:January 11, 2025, 12:43 IST

Mel Gibson, who had lived in the Malibu home for over 14 years, opened up about the emotional impact of losing treasured personal items.

Mel Gibson mentioned his loved ones remained safe. (Photo Credits: Instagram)

Actor Mel Gibson’s Malibu home has been completely destroyed in the wildfires that swept across the Los Angeles area. The actor revealed the emotional loss during an interview sharing that the fire consumed his property while he was in Austin, Texas, recording a podcast with Joe Rogan. At the time, he was unaware of the destruction taking place back home. Speaking about the tragic event, Gibson said, “I was kind of ill at ease while Rogan and I were talking because I knew my neighbourhood was on fire. I thought, ‘I wonder if my place is still there.’ But when I got home, sure enough, it wasn’t there.”

The fire left little behind, with only remnants like a low stone wall, chimneys and piles of burned rubble remaining, as described in The Daily Beast.

Gibson, who had lived in the Malibu home for over 14 years, expressed the emotional toll of losing personal belongings such as photographs and files. “It’s kind of devastating. It’s emotional. I’ve never come across a place so perfectly burnt—it’s completely toasted,” he said during his interview with NewsNation’s Elizabeth Vargas Reports.

The wildfires, which ravaged a 25-mile stretch north of downtown Los Angeles, caused catastrophic damage, claiming seven lives and destroying over 10,000 buildings. The actor likened the destruction of his home to the aftermath of the World War II bombing of Dresden, Germany.

Despite the devastation, Gibson expressed gratitude that his loved ones remained safe. “These are only things and the good news is that those in my family and those I love are all well and happy.” As a surprise, even the family’s chickens, which were locked in a coop during the fire, were miraculously unharmed, he mentioned.

While the loss of his home is undoubtedly heartbreaking, Gibson’s focus remains on the safety and well-being of his family as he begins the process of rebuilding and moving forward.

According to Forbes, wildfires erupted in Los Angeles on Tuesday, causing significant damage and destruction to countless homes and businesses across the region. Thousands of residents were forced to evacuate as the flames spread rapidly. The fires have also disrupted Hollywood, halting production on several television shows. Additionally, numerous events, including red-carpet premieres and awards season celebrations, have been postponed or cancelled due to the ongoing crisis.