The latest wildfire in Malibu, known as the Franklin Fire, has forced evacuations throughout the area, including for Hollywood legend Dick Van Dyke. The 98-year-old star, best known for his role in The Dick Van Dyke Show and Mary Poppins, has shared updates on social media, reassuring fans that he and his wife, Arlene Silver, are safe. The fire has affected thousands of people, including several other celebrities. Here’s everything you need to know about the ongoing Malibu wildfire and how it’s impacting residents and famous figures like Van Dyke.
Franklin Fire Forces Evacuations in Malibu
The Franklin Fire began around 10:50 p.m. on Monday north of Pepperdine University, spreading quickly and threatening homes in Malibu. By Tuesday, the fire had grown to over 2,800 acres. Local authorities reported that more than 18,000 people and 8,100 buildings were affected by the flames, with over 2,000 buildings under evacuation orders.
Dick Van Dyke’s Home in Danger
Dick Van Dyke, who has lived in Malibu for many years, was among those who had to evacuate their home as the fire crept closer. On social media, the beloved actor shared a heartfelt update with fans. “Arlene and I have safely evacuated with our animals except for Bobo who escaped as we were leaving,” Van Dyke wrote on Facebook. He expressed concern for their missing cat, Bobo, and added, “We’re praying he’ll be okay and that our community in Serra Retreat will survive these terrible fires.”
Van Dyke’s fans quickly flooded the comments with prayers and well-wishes, showing their support during this difficult time. One fan wrote, “Prayers lifted for you and your family and friends. Prayers for emergency responders as well!” Another added, “Glad you all are safe, hoping Bobo will be rescued.”
Other Celebrities Evacuate Malibu
Dick Van Dyke wasn’t the only famous face affected by the Franklin Fire. Other celebrities in the area, including singer Cher, actress Barbra Streisand, and actress Mira Sorvino, also had to evacuate their homes.
Cher and Barbra Streisand
Representatives for Cher confirmed that the singer had safely evacuated and is staying in a hotel with her pets. Cher has long called Malibu home, and this isn’t the first time she has had to deal with evacuations due to wildfires. Barbra Streisand, another Malibu resident, was also forced to leave her home as the flames drew closer.
Mira Sorvino Shares Evacuation Story
Actress Mira Sorvino took to social media to share her family’s experience. “All my Malibu friends and neighbors, I pray that you are safe,” Sorvino posted on X (formerly Twitter). “We evacuated in the middle of the night, kids and pets all accounted for! Scary times!!”
The Franklin Fire: A Closer Look
The Franklin Fire’s rapid spread is due to several factors, including high winds and dry conditions in the region. As of the latest reports, firefighters have made some progress, but containment remains challenging. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with LA County Fire and Sheriff’s arson teams working to determine whether it was accidental or deliberate.
Wildfire Statistics
As of now, the Franklin Fire has affected over 18,000 people, with many forced to leave their homes in the face of the advancing flames. More than 2,000 buildings have been evacuated, and local officials are urging residents to stay alert as conditions change. The fire has overwhelmed resources, with firefighters working around the clock to contain it.
Firefighting Efforts
Firefighters are using helicopters, bulldozers, and fire engines to battle the blaze, but the combination of wind and dry vegetation has made it difficult to fully control the fire. Officials continue to monitor the situation and issue evacuation orders as needed.
Dick Van Dyke Reflects on Life and Career Amid Crisis
Despite the overwhelming challenges, Dick Van Dyke remains calm and focused on his loved ones. Just days before the fire, Van Dyke appeared in a music video for Coldplay’s latest song, “All My Love.” The video celebrated his long career and featured clips of Van Dyke with his family and various accolades throughout his career.
In the video, Van Dyke expressed his views on life, death, and legacy, reflecting on his accomplishments. “I’m acutely aware that I could go any day now. But I don’t know why it doesn’t concern me. I’m not afraid of it,” he said, showing his usual positive outlook. “I have that feeling, totally against anything intellectual, that I’m going to be all right.”
Van Dyke, who turns 99 on Friday, remains a beloved figure in Hollywood and beyond. His career spans decades, and his work in film and television has made a lasting impact.
Community Spirit Amid the Flames
The fire’s destructive force has affected not only celebrities but also the broader Malibu community. As the fire rages on, residents are banding together to help one another. Local organizations, including fire departments and animal rescue teams, are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of all residents and their pets.
Support for First Responders
Throughout the disaster, the community has also come together to show support for the first responders. Many social media users have expressed gratitude for the brave men and women fighting the fires. One fan wrote on Van Dyke’s Facebook post, “Prayers for emergency responders as well!” and “Thank you to all the firefighters who are risking their lives.”
Prayers for Bobo
As for Dick Van Dyke’s beloved cat, Bobo, fans continue to hope for a safe return. After the initial evacuation, Van Dyke shared a video of Bobo, saying, “I hope Bobo is okay.” While the cat’s whereabouts remain unknown, many fans are hoping for a happy reunion.
What’s Next for Malibu?
As the Franklin Fire continues to affect thousands of people in Malibu, residents, celebrities, and first responders are doing everything they can to protect their homes and loved ones. With over 2,000 buildings under evacuation orders, the situation remains tense. However, the community spirit and efforts of firefighters provide hope for recovery.
For Dick Van Dyke and other celebrities like Cher and Mira Sorvino, the road ahead will likely be filled with challenges as they assess the damage and begin the rebuilding process. But for now, the focus is on safety, with hopes for a swift end to the fire and a safe return for all.
Final Thoughts
The wildfires in Malibu serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of community support during times of crisis. While Dick Van Dyke and other celebrities have shared their experiences, the true heroes remain the first responders who are fighting the blaze and protecting lives.
We wish Van Dyke, his family, and all affected by the fire a speedy recovery and hope that Bobo finds his way home soon.
Stay safe, and don’t forget to check for updates as the situation develops.
