Singer-songwriter Jhene Aiko has returned to the charred remains of her Pacific Palisades home, months after it was destroyed in the January wildfires that ravaged Los Angeles. The visit marked her first time back since the blaze consumed her residence and belongings.
Aiko, 37, shared a series of somber images on Instagram, depicting the devastation: scorched vehicles, collapsed structures, and ash-covered grounds. In the caption, she wrote, “You absolutely MUST cry about it,” emphasizing the importance of grieving.
A Personal Loss Amid Widespread Destruction
The Pacific Palisades Fire, part of a series of wildfires that erupted in early January 2025, led to the destruction of approximately 6,800 structures and claimed 30 lives across Los Angeles. Aiko’s home was among those lost. Despite the material loss, she expressed gratitude for her family’s safety, stating, “Me and my children’s home is gone, burned to the ground with all of our things inside. Lord have mercy. Thankful we still have each other. Starting from scratch. My heart is heavy.”
In the aftermath, Aiko faced criticism from some social media users who downplayed her loss due to her celebrity status. She addressed these comments, saying, “The fact some of you think I have Paris Hilton money is wild. I don’t got it like that, but I do have a big, loving family that is worth more than anything.”
Giving Back to First Responders
In a gesture of gratitude, Aiko and her wellness brand, Jhenetics, sponsored free massages for firefighters who battled the wildfires. She shared on Instagram, “Thank you to our first responders, those who have spent days away from their families, working tirelessly to protect us. We hope this small gesture of gratitude makes a difference during these long shifts.”