Jimmy Kimmel returns to studio, shares emotional tribute to firefighters amid LA wildfire devastation

Jimmy Kimmel made a return to his Hollywood studio on January 13, 2025, after being evacuated due to the devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles County. The Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire have wreaked havoc in the area, forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes and resulting in significant destruction.

Kimmel got emotional as he expressed gratitude to the firefighters and frontline workers who have been tirelessly battling the blazes. He shared a touching story about the son of one of his employees, who packed eight pairs of boxers and all his baby teeth in his go-bag while evacuating.

He said, "It's been terrible. Everyone who lives in this city knows someone. Most of us, multiple people, families, friends, colleagues, neighbours whose houses burned down. And the truth is, we don't even know if it's over. We had 100 miles per hour winds fueling this nightmare.
As of tonight, the winds are back. And I think I speak for all of us when I say it has been a sickening, shocking, awful experience, but has also been, in a lot of ways, a beautiful experience because, once again, we see our fellow men and women coming together."

He mentioned out how many of his colleagues had to leave their homes quickly, with some losing everything. The fires have had a tragic impact on the community, with at least 24 lives lost and countless homes destroyed.

Kimmel also took a moment to address the community spirit that has emerged during this crisis. He praised individuals who lost their own homes but still volunteered to help others in need. Kimmel expressed his disdain for negative comments made by some public figures during this difficult time, choosing instead to focus on thanking the brave men and women who have come from across the country to assist in firefighting efforts.

Despite the devastation, Kimmel found hope in the community's response. He praised the bravery of firefighters who rushed to combat the fires without hesitation and emphasized the importance of supporting those affected by this disaster. He encouraged viewers to donate to organizations like LAFD.org to help those in need.

In a remote segment from the Palisades area, Kimmel interviewed chefs working with World Central Kitchen, who are providing meals for emergency responders and displaced residents. He also spoke with Steve Guttenberg, an emerging local hero known for helping put out fires and rescuing lost pets.