Amazing! Chapel Structure Still Stands Despite Intense Fires on Hollywood Set

Chapel Structure Still Stands Despite Intense Fires on Hollywood Set

By Tess Farrand, Staff Writer

The greater Los Angeles area has experienced a rough week. On Wednesday evening, a shooter opened fire at a country western themed bar called Borderline, killing twelve people. Located in Thousand Oaks, just miles from the Movieguide® headquarters, many grieving families mourned the loss of loved ones. With barely any time to process recent events, a series of wildfires broke out the following afternoon as the infamous Santa Ana winds swept through the tri-state area during their prime season. Many have fled their homes in search of shelter.

The Woosley Fire is one among many wildfires wreaking through the Southern California region. Earlier today, Paramount revealed that its historic western set known as the Paramount Ranch burned down. The set, which is in Agoura Hills, just over thirty miles west of L.A., was being utilized for the HBO series WESTWORLD. A representative of the show commented on recent events, “WESTWORLD is not currently in production, and as the area has been evacuated, we do not yet know the extent of the damage to any structures remaining there. Most importantly, our thoughts go out to all those affected by these horrible fires.”

We are sorry to share the news that the #WoolseyFire has burned Western Town at #ParamountRanch in Agoura. We do not have any details or photos, but it is our understanding that the structures have burned. This area is an active part of the incident and we cannot access it. pic.twitter.com/oC4n7KR8ZT

— Santa Monica Mtns (@SantaMonicaMtns) November 9, 2018

Paramount first used the ranch in 1927 during the early heydays of Hollywood and was open to the public as apart of the National Park Service. Classic movies like THE LOVEBUG and THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER were shot on the grounds. In more recent years, THE LAKE HOUSE with Sandra Bullock and the military biopic AMERICAN SNIPER, starring Bradley Cooper, also shot scenes there.

Amidst all the debris and rubble from the recent fire at the ranch, the chapel set piece still remains, truly nothing short of a miracle.

As the fires continue, many other entertainment locations are being threatened, like THE BACHELOR mansion in Agoura Hillis, which has lost portions of its property. Contestants for the latest season have relocated and are alright.

If in the fire’s line of sight, other productions, might shut down for a period of time.

Although southern California is no stranger to fires, the sheer enormity of the conditions threatens many. Please continue to be in prayer for the residents, and emergency responders as they grapple with the increasing dangers, as well as the loss of homes and loved ones.

At the time of this article’s publication, the fires head towards the Pacific Ocean, threatening thousands of homes along the way.

“But I trust in you, LORD; I say, ‘You are my God.’” – Psalm 31:14 (NIV)

*On Thursday at Movieguide® headquarters, flames were visible, but everyone remains safe and out of harm’s way.

Now more than ever we’re bombarded by darkness in media, movies, and TV. Movieguide® has fought back for almost 40 years, working within Hollywood to propel uplifting and positive content. We’re proud to say we’ve collaborated with some of the top industry players to influence and redeem entertainment for Jesus. Still, the most influential person in Hollywood is you. The viewer.

What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.

You can make a difference with as little as $7. It takes only a moment. If you can, consider supporting our ministry with a monthly gift. Thank you.

Movieguide® is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.

What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.

You can make a difference with as little as $7. It takes only a moment. If you can, consider supporting our ministry with a monthly gift. Thank you.

Movieguide® is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.