Pacific Palisades, a picturesque neighborhood in Los Angeles, has long been a favored residence for numerous celebrities drawn to its serene environment, stunning ocean views, and relative privacy. This upscale area is home to some of Hollywood’s most beloved figures, including the acclaimed actor Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson, legendary director Steven Spielberg, and actors Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner.
Other notable residents include Larry David, Billy Crystal, Steve Guttenberg, Eugene Levy, and James Woods, all of whom appreciate the neighborhood’s blend of natural beauty and upscale amenities.
However, the tranquility of Pacific Palisades was recently disrupted by the rapid spread of the Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025.
Fueled by strong Santa Ana winds and dry conditions, the wildfire quickly expanded to over 1,200 acres, threatening approximately 13,000 structures in the affluent area. Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for around 30,000 residents, leading to congested roads and some individuals fleeing on foot to ensure their safety.
Amidst the chaos, celebrities like Steve Guttenberg stepped up to assist in evacuation efforts, helping to move vehicles and urging residents to leave their car keys accessible for emergency services. Over 250 firefighters have been battling the blaze, facing extreme wind conditions with gusts reaching up to 60 mph.
Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, and preventative power cuts were implemented to reduce the risk of further fires, affecting over 400,000 customers in the region.
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The wildfire’s impact extended to local landmarks, including the Getty Villa, a renowned museum in Pacific Palisades. While some vegetation on the grounds burned, the main structure and its valuable collections remained secure thanks to advanced protective measures.
Many of the neighborhood’s celebrity residents have had to evacuate their homes due to the wildfire. Eugene Levy and James Woods, both well-known actors, were among those who left their residences to ensure their safety. The situation has highlighted the vulnerability of even the most secluded and affluent areas to natural disasters, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and community support.
What Celebrities Live in Pacific Palisades
Pacific Palisades’ appeal to celebrities lies in its combination of natural beauty, upscale living, and a degree of seclusion that offers respite from the public eye. This allure is evident in the diverse range of stars who call the area home.
Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson have been long-time residents, enjoying the neighborhood’s family-friendly atmosphere. Steven Spielberg, the legendary director and producer, also resides here, as do actors Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, who appreciate the area’s balance of privacy and community.
Larry David, creator of “Seinfeld” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” and Billy Crystal, beloved actor and comedian, are among the other notable figures who find Pacific Palisades an ideal place to live. Steve Guttenberg, famous for his roles in “Police Academy” and “Three Men and a Baby,” has been particularly active in community events, demonstrating his commitment to the neighborhood.
The recent wildfire has tested the resilience of Pacific Palisades’ community, including its celebrity residents. Despite the challenges, the solidarity among neighbors and the support from figures like Steve Guttenberg have been crucial in managing the crisis. The wildfire serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of natural disasters and the importance of being prepared, even in the most seemingly safe and idyllic locations.
Notable figures who have called this area home include:
- Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson: The acclaimed actor and his wife have been long-time residents of Pacific Palisades.
- Steven Spielberg: The legendary director and producer is among the prominent figures residing in the area.
- Ben Affleck: The actor and director has owned property in Pacific Palisades, sharing a home with his former wife, Jennifer Garner.
- Jennifer Garner: The actress has been associated with multiple properties in the area, reflecting her preference for family-friendly neighborhoods.
- Larry David: The creator of “Seinfeld” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm” is known to reside in Pacific Palisades.
- Billy Crystal: The actor and comedian has a residence in the neighborhood, known for its traditional architectural style.
- Steve Guttenberg: The actor, famous for roles in “Police Academy” and “Three Men and a Baby,” resides in the area and has been active in community events.
- Eugene Levy: The actor and comedian, known for “Schitt’s Creek,” is among the celebrities who have evacuated their homes in Pacific Palisades due to recent wildfires.
- James Woods: The actor has shared experiences of evacuating his Pacific Palisades home during wildfires, highlighting the area’s susceptibility to such natural events.
For now, the focus remains on containing the Palisades Fire and supporting those affected by it. As Pacific Palisades navigates this challenging time, the presence of its celebrity residents underscores the area’s prominence and the collective effort required to overcome such adversities.
Pacific Palisades continues to be a symbol of luxury and tranquility, attracting Hollywood’s finest while also demonstrating the community’s strength in the face of natural disasters. The combination of stunning landscapes, upscale amenities, and a supportive community makes it a unique and desirable place to live, even as it faces the challenges posed by wildfires and other natural events.
