Iconic places in Hollywood that were destroyed
Topanga Ranch Motel
Constructed in 1929 by newspaper baron William Randolph Hearst, the bungalow-style nearly 100-year-old motel, which has been used as the backdrop for multiple TV and film projects over the years, was destroyed in the blaze, confirmed the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
Malibu’s Harbor Studios
The iconic recording studio Malibu’s Harbor Studios was where Nicki Minaj recorded her 2023-released ‘Pink Friday 2’ album and where Doja Cat worked on her fourth record ‘Scarlet’ featuring ‘Paint the Town Red’ has burned down. ‘Super Freaky Girl’, which was recorded by Nicki Minaj set the record for the largest vinyl sales week for a female rap album in history. The studio was also used by film composer Paul Dinletir for high-profile films, including ‘Avatar’ and ‘The Avengers’.
Will Rogers’ Ranch House
The historic 31-room ranch house of Will Rogers, once a symbol of Hollywood’s Golden Age, has been destroyed. The ranch, spanning 359 acres in Pacific Palisades, was donated to the California Department of Parks and Recreation in 1944 and transformed into Will Rogers State Historic Park. Its destruction marks the loss of irreplaceable artefacts, including Native American rugs, baskets, and original artworks by Charles M Russell and Ed Borein.
Palisades Charter High School
The public school was the main location for the 1976 horror classic ‘Carrie’, and the 2003 remake of ‘Freaky Friday’, starring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis. Palisades Charter is one of several LA County schools that sustained fire damage.
Theatre Palisades, Pierson Playhouse
Theatre Palisades which was founded in 1963 by TV writers Ken Rosen, Sheldon Stark, and Jacquie Chester, has now been completely destroyed by the Pacific Palisades Fire.
Villa de Leon
The historic 35-room Italian Revival mansion in Malibu has been used as the backdrop in numerous high-profile music videos and photo shoots. Its grand staircase and balconies have been featured in music videos by Beyoncé (Haunted), Selena Gomez (Love On), and Lady Gaga (Paparazzi), among others.