Billy Crystal and his wife, Janice, are mourning the loss of their longtime Pacific Palisades home, which was destroyed in the devastating wildfire that swept through the area. The couple had lived in the four-bedroom, six-bathroom property since 1979, raising their family and creating decades of cherished memories.
“Words cannot describe the enormity of the devastation we are witnessing and experiencing,” Crystal, 76, shared in a statement to People magazine. “We ache for our friends and neighbors who have also lost their homes and businesses in this tragedy.”
The home, originally built in 1936, was purchased by the couple for $435,000. Over the years, its value soared to an estimated $7.5 to $9 million. However, the house is now reduced to rubble, with photos showing only a smoking pile of debris. Remarkably, the property’s tennis court is the sole structure that appears to have survived the inferno.
“Janice and I lived in our home since 1979. We raised our children and grandchildren here. Every inch of our house was filled with love. Beautiful memories that can’t be taken away,” Crystal continued. “We are heartbroken, of course, but with the love of our children and friends, we will get through this.”
Despite the loss, Crystal ended his statement on a hopeful note. “We pray for the safety of the firefighters and first responders. The Pacific Palisades is a resilient community of amazing people, and we know in time it will rise again. It is our home.”
The fire, which has caused widespread destruction in the Pacific Palisades, has left residents grappling with the loss of not only property but also a sense of stability. For Crystal and his family, the memories tied to their home remain, even as they look ahead to rebuilding and healing alongside their community.