Hollywood Bowl Evacuated as Sunset Fire Rages in Los Angeles

Los Angeles faced another devastating fire Wednesday evening as the Sunset Fire erupted in Runyon Canyon, threatening iconic landmarks, including the Hollywood Bowl.

Flames broke out around 5:30 p.m., quickly spreading toward Hollywood Boulevard and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Popular tourist spots such as the Magic Castle, TCL Chinese Theatre, El Capitan Theatre, Madame Tussauds, and Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel were at risk.

The Hollywood Bowl evacuated all staff, posting on X (formerly Twitter), "We extend our deepest gratitude to the firefighters who are working tirelessly to protect our community."

By midnight, the Los Angeles Fire Department announced that most evacuation zones were lifted except for areas north of Franklin Avenue between Camino Palmero Street and N Sierra Bonita Avenue. Officials warned residents to remain cautious as firefighters continued working to prevent flare-ups.

The initial evacuation order covered an area from Laurel Canyon Boulevard to the 101 Freeway and Mulholland Drive to Hollywood Boulevard. By 9 p.m., the fire had scorched 60 to 100 acres.

Several landmarks, including the Magic Castle, temporarily closed due to the fire. Social media updates confirmed the historic site was saved thanks to firefighters' efforts.

Adding to the chaos, the Sunswept Fire ignited in Studio City at 8:52 p.m., damaging homes and brush before being largely contained by 10 p.m.

The fires come amid a week of relentless wildfires across Los Angeles County, including the massive Palisades Fire, which began Tuesday morning. Over 30,000 residents have been evacuated, with 15,800 acres burned. Other ongoing fires include the Eaton, Hurst, Lidia, and Woodley fires.

Tragically, five lives have been lost, and more than 1,000 structures destroyed. Celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Mandy Moore, and Billy Crystal are among those who have lost their homes.

The National Weather Service warns that critical fire conditions will persist through Friday, fueled by gusty winds and dry weather.

The Hollywood Bowl, a historic venue dating back to 1929, remains a symbol of L.A.'s resilience as firefighters battle to save it and the surrounding landmarks.