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Iconic Palisades High School Damaged in Los Angeles Wildfire, Hollywood Mourns Loss
Jan
Palisades Charter High School, a famed filming location for numerous Hollywood productions and the alma mater of stars like Forest Whitaker, J.J. Abrams, and Jennifer Jason Leigh, has sustained significant damage from the devastating wildfires ravaging Los Angeles.
The school, affectionately known as Pali High, is situated in the affluent Pacific Palisades neighborhood and has served as the backdrop for iconic films such as Carrie (1976), Freaky Friday (2003), and the 2012 party comedy Project X.
Wildfires Ravage Los Angeles, Destroy Beloved Landmarks
As of Wednesday, more than 15,000 acres were burning in Pacific Palisades, with the fire 0% contained. Videos shared on social media show flames engulfing parts of the high school and the nearby Palisades Charter Elementary School.
A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Unified School District confirmed to Entertainment Weekly that Pali High had suffered significant damage. “We are currently working with local authorities and emergency response teams to assess the situation and determine next steps,” they said.
Pali High’s Legacy in Hollywood
Palisades Charter High School has been a beloved location for Hollywood filmmakers for decades. Notable productions shot at the campus include:
- Carrie (1976) – Brian De Palma’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel
- Freaky Friday (2003) – Starring Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan
- Project X (2012) – A cult party film
- Teen Wolf (MTV series)
Beyond its on-screen fame, the school boasts a star-studded alumni list, including:
- Forest Whitaker – Academy Award-winning actor
- J.J. Abrams – Acclaimed filmmaker behind Star Wars: The Force Awakens
- Jennifer Jason Leigh – Oscar-nominated actress
- Katey Sagal – Married… with Children star
- Will.i.am – Black Eyed Peas member
- Steve Kerr – NBA coach and former player
Community Evacuations and Celebrity Responses
California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency across Los Angeles County. In addition to the Palisades fire, major blazes are wreaking havoc in Altadena, Pasadena, and Sylmar.
More than 30,000 residents have been forced to evacuate, including several Hollywood celebrities:
- Mark Hamill – Star Wars actor
- Mandy Moore – This Is Us star
- James Woods – Actor and political commentator
- Spencer and Heidi Pratt – Reality TV personalities
- Maria Shriver – Journalist and former First Lady of California
Steve Guttenberg’s Heroic Act Goes Viral
Actor Steve Guttenberg (Police Academy, Three Men and a Baby) made headlines for his spontaneous act of heroism during the wildfires. Appearing on a KTLA news segment, Guttenberg urged residents who abandoned their cars during evacuations to leave their keys inside to help clear the roads for emergency responders.
“The fire got so close and everybody was trying to get out that it became sort of a little bit of a panic,” Guttenberg told EW. “I just started moving cars.”
The actor emphasized the importance of community and mutual support during a crisis. “In a crisis, always remember that you’re part of a community. And if you’re able-bodied, you’ve got to help. You can’t walk by somebody when they need something.”
A Devastating Blow to a Cultural Landmark
The damage to Palisades High School marks a significant loss for both the local community and Hollywood history. As firefighting efforts continue, residents and fans alike hope for the school’s recovery, ensuring its legacy as a cherished landmark and cultural icon endures.
The 2025 spring semester at Pali High, which was set to begin on Jan. 14, is now delayed indefinitely as authorities work to assess the damage.
In the words of one local resident: “Pali High isn’t just a school — it’s part of our story, our culture, and our identity.”