Maui is a popular destination for the rich and famous, who enjoyed the natural beauty, laid-back lifestyle and privacy that now seems to have been brutally erased. You might be surprised by a list of the celebrities that own homes on the island.
The wildfires in Maui have become a devastating natural disaster, killing at least 93 people at last count, and destroying much of the historic town of Lahaina. The fires were fueled by strong winds, low humidity, and drought conditions, creating a perfect storm of fire danger.
The fires spread rapidly from vegetation to structures, forcing thousands of residents and tourists to evacuate or seek shelter. Some people even jumped into the ocean to escape the flames, though we now learn that this is itself a dangerous practice and should only be used as a last resort.
They have also damaged many cultural landmarks, such as the Waiola Church, the first Christian church on Maui, and a 150-year-old banyan tree that covered a large area of land. The Maui fires are considered the deadliest natural disaster in Hawaii since it became a state in 1959, and the deadliest wildfire in modern U.S. history.
The question is, which of these celebrities with deep pockets have stepped up to help get the island’s residents back on their feet?
Oprah Winfrey has a farmhouse in Kula, a town in Upcountry Maui, as well as 200 acres of land in Hana, a remote area on the east coast of Maui. She bought the land from the Hana Ranch in 2016 for $32.5 million. She was seen at an evacuation center in Maui, handing out supplies to the evacuees. She said, “I came earlier, just to see what people needed, and then went shopping because often you make donations of clothes or whatever, and it’s not really what people need.”
Jeff Bezos, the richest person in the world, bought a 14-acre estate in La Perouse Bay, a scenic spot on the south shore of Maui, for $78 million in 2020. It was the most expensive home sale ever recorded on Maui. Together with Lauren Sánchez they said in a statement, “We are heartbroken by the loss of life and devastation caused by the fires in Maui. We want to do our part to help the community recover and rebuild.” They have been on the phone with locals and local officials and they will be making donations to help the community.
Jason Momoa, the Aquaman star, who is from Honolulu, has used his social media platforms to raise awareness and funds for the Maui wildfire relief. Momoa said, “My heart goes out to all those affected by the devastating fires across the Island of Maui. In times like these, we come together as an ‘Ohana, a family, to kāko’o and kōkua one another.” He also shared links to organizations that are helping, such as ‘Āina Momona and Protect Mauna a Wākea.
Olivia Wilde, the actress and director, who has visited Maui many times, also shared links to donation sites on her Instagram stories. “Maui has always saved me, scraped me off the floor when I’ve been down. Now it’s our turn to help them,” she wrote.
Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac, saw his Lahaina restaurant – Fleetwood’s on Front Street – burned to the ground.
In a statement on social media, Mick said:
“Maui and the Lahaina community have been my home for several decades. This is a devastating moment for Maui, and many are suffering unimaginable loss. Fleetwood’s on Front Street has been lost and while we are heartbroken, our main priority is the safety of our dear staff and team members.’On behalf of myself and my family, I share my heartfelt thoughts and prayers for the people of Maui. We are committed to supporting the community and those affected by this disaster in the days and months and years to come.”
Barack Obama, who grew up in Honolulu and has a home on the Big Island, also released a statement last night with a link to the local community fundraising effort. “It’s tough to see some of the images coming out of Hawai’i — a place that’s so special to so many of us. Michelle and I are thinking of everyone who has lost a loved one, or whose life has been turned upside down. If you’d like to help, you can do so here,” he said.
Clint Eastwood, legendary actor and director, has been a part-time resident of Kapalua, a resort community on the northwest coast of Maui, since the late 1970s. He owns a home with stunning ocean views and a golf course nearby. He has not responded yet.
Willie Nelson, country music icon and activist, has a home in Paia, a funky town on the north shore of Maui. He is often seen playing music at Charley’s Restaurant and Saloon, a local hangout that he co-owns.
Eastwood and Nelson have not yet responded.
The American Red Cross is in Hawaii to assist with the recovery that officials say will take ‘years’.
According to Deadline, celebrity chef Jose Andres – who regularly lends his help in natural disasters – is working on a plan to bring food to many of Maui’s locals.
