Mel Gibson opens up about the heartbreaking reality after losing his home to a devastating fire
Hollywood icon Mel Gibson, 69, has lost his Malibu home to the devastating Palisades fire, which continues to wreak havoc in California.
The actor and filmmaker was in Austin, Texas, recording an episode of *The Joe Rogan Experience* when the wildfire erupted, ultimately consuming the home he had lived in for over 15 years. The destruction marks a significant personal loss for Gibson as he reflects on the toll of the ongoing crisis.
Criticized Governor Gavin Newsom
According to the *BBC*, the fire rapidly swept through Gibson’s neighborhood, engulfing numerous homes. Thankfully, Gibson’s longtime partner Rosalind Ross and their seven-year-old son, Lars, were able to evacuate safely before the flames reached their property. Despite this, the blaze left a trail of destruction in its wake, consuming homes and displacing families.
Speaking with Joe Rogan, Gibson expressed concern about the state’s response to the crisis, criticizing California Governor Gavin Newsom. He remarked on what he perceived as a lack of preparedness, saying, “I think all our tax dollars probably went for Gavin’s hair gel.” His pointed comments underscored his frustration with leadership during the disaster.
Upon returning to California, Gibson confirmed the total loss of his $14.5 million Malibu estate. In an interview with NewsNation’s Elizabeth Vargas, he recalled the moment he discovered the extent of the damage: “I thought, ‘Eh, I wonder if my place is still there.’ When I got home, sure enough, it wasn’t there.”
Bought the Property in 2008
Gibson purchased the sprawling property in 2008 for $11.5 million. Built in 1996, the estate exuded old-world charm, featuring five bedrooms and a distinctive castle-like turret. Over the years, the actor had attempted to sell the home, even reducing the asking price by $3 million in recent years, according to the Daily Mail.
Despite his gratitude that his family was safe, Gibson admitted that the loss was deeply personal. “I had a lot of personal things there that I can’t get back,” he shared. Among the items destroyed were photographs, files, and clothing—irreplaceable mementos from his life and career.
Despite the devastation, Gibson found solace in the safety of his loved ones. “These are just things,” he said. “The important thing is that my family and the people I care about are safe and healthy. That’s all I can really ask for.”
Describing the scene in his neighborhood, Gibson noted, “I’ve never seen such a complete burn.” Reports indicate that other high-profile residents, including actor Ed Harris, Paris Hilton, and Billy Crystal, may have also lost their properties to the blaze. The destruction has left many grappling with the magnitude of the disaster.
”Completely Toasted”
Reflecting on the aftermath, Gibson described his property as “completely toasted.” Adding a touch of dark humor, he joked, “Well, at least I don’t have to worry about those pesky plumbing problems anymore.” He also revealed that, miraculously, his chickens survived the fire. “It was amazing,” he said with a hint of relief.
California’s wildfire crisis continues to affect countless residents, including public figures like Gibson. Speaking to Fox News, he expressed frustration over leadership failures. “Apparently, some people were asleep on the job,” he said. “Kids are traumatized. Someone should answer for it.” His comments underline the broader impact of the fires, which have left many calling for better preparedness and accountability.
