Wildfire Destroys $125M Mansion Featured in HBO’s ‘Succession’

A devastating wildfire in Los Angeles has destroyed a $125 million Pacific Palisades mansion, famously featured in HBO‘s hit series ‘Succession.’ The property, owned by Luminar Technologies CEO Austin Russell, was reduced to ashes as the Palisades Fire ravaged over 21,000 acres, claiming two lives and destroying 10,000 structures.

The futuristic four-story mansion, known for its retractable roof, Nobu-designed kitchen, and 20-seat theater, was a key filming location in Season 4 of ‘Succession.’ The property, which once served as a luxury retreat for the show’s Roy siblings, now lies in rubble, its iconic ocean-facing patio and fire pit blackened by soot.

According to the Daily Mail, the mansion was purchased by Russell for $83 million in 2021. Before its destruction, the property was available for rent at $450,000 per month. The home featured advanced amenities, including a car gallery with a turntable, a rooftop deck, and a retinal-scan security system.

The Palisades Fire, which began earlier this week, has only been 8% contained as of Friday. Strong winds have pushed the blaze toward additional Los Angeles neighborhoods, including the San Fernando Valley. Authorities are facing criticism over water shortages during the initial firefight, with questions raised about an empty reservoir and malfunctioning fire hydrants.

Russell, a tech billionaire, initially kept his ownership of the mansion private. His company, Luminar Technologies, specializes in lidar technology for autonomous vehicles. The destruction of the property marks a significant personal and financial loss for Russell.

As the wildfire continues to spread, residents face evacuation challenges and concerns about looting in abandoned neighborhoods. Emergency services remain on high alert, with other fires, including the Kenneth, Archer, and Eaton blazes, threatening nearby communities.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, promising accountability if foul play is discovered. Meanwhile, California braces for continued critical fire-weather conditions through early next week.