Bette Midler is using her platform to highlight a moment of hope amid the devastation caused by the Los Angeles wildfires. On Jan. 10, the actress reposted a moving video on Instagram of the Halpin family singing together in the ruins of what was once their home in Altadena, California.
“A family in the Eaton Fire #eaton #losangeles,” Midler, 79, captioned the video, which shows nine people standing in a rubble-filled yard with a smoke-filled sky above them. Some wear masks as they sing in unison, surrounded by the burned remnants of their neighborhood.
The video was originally posted by Instagram user Nicole Tittmann, who praised the Halpin family’s resilience. "At the smoldering remains of their home, surrounded by friends and family," Tittmann wrote. "I am humbled by their example of faith and love and trust. God bless the Halpins."
Karolyn Dudro, one of the singers in the video and a resident of Altadena, later reposted Midler’s story, writing, "So glad we can offer some small comfort to those who have lost so much! Thank you @bettemidler.”
A Family’s Unbreakable Spirit
Andrew Halpin, a member of the family, revealed in a comment under the video that his parents had lived in the house for 37 years. Remarkably, one of the few items to survive the blaze was a "statue of the blessed virgin Mary," he shared. A GoFundMe campaign launched by Pete Halpin to support his parents has since raised more than $134,000, a testament to the community’s generosity.
Midler Speaks Out on the Wildfires
This is not the first time Midler has expressed her heartbreak over the fires ravaging Los Angeles, according to People. On Jan. 9, the singer and actress shared an emotional statement on Instagram addressing the devastation. "To everyone living through the apocalyptic and unbelievable fires of the last few days, who have lost everything and now have the enormous task of getting back on their feet; I am devastated and heartbroken for all of us," she wrote. “I wish only the best for our beloved city, now and always.”
Bette Midler performing during her Divine Intervention Tour in 2015, wearing a sparkling gown with arms outstretched on stagePhoto by Alan Light via Flickr - CC BY 2.0
Widespread Impact of the Fires
The fires, which began in Pacific Palisades on Jan. 7 and later spread to Pasadena and Altadena, have burned over 10,000 acres and destroyed numerous homes. Officials report at least 11 fatalities and 80,000 residents displaced. Communities in Encino, Brentwood, and around the Getty Center remain under evacuation orders as the fires continue to spread.
Celebrities Affected
The Halpin family’s story is one of many shining through the darkness. Celebrities like John Legend and Maria Shriver have also shared their journeys, showing that heartbreak and hope touch everyone in times of crisis.
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