Comedians Bill Burr and Shane Gillis are joining forces for a special one-night comedy event on January 27 to support those affected by the devastating wildfires raging through Los Angeles.
The event will take place at The Wiltern Theater, with all proceeds from the show benefiting the Wildfire Relief Fund, managed by GoFundMe.org. Over the past weeks, wildfires across the region have wreaked havoc, resulting in the loss of at least 27 lives and the destruction of more than 15,000 structures. The Palisades Fire is reported to be 60% contained, whereas the Eaton Fire is almost 90% contained after nearly two weeks of firefighting efforts.
Tickets for the show went on sale via Live Nation’s website, and the frenzy to grab seats reflects the support from the community for those suffering from the aftermath of the fires. The Wildfire Relief Fund aims to raise $8 million, having already collected more than $5 million as of January 20.
Burr has actively spoken about the wildfires and the misinformation surrounding them during several appearances, most recently on Jimmy Kimmel Live! where he criticized self-proclaimed “fire experts” commenting on social media. “Everybody’s doing a great job, unlike the internet. Oh my god, all of these ‘fire experts,’” he said, underscoring the disconnect between public perceptions and the reality faced by firefighters on the ground. Burr sarcastically questioned one social media user's suggestion to deploy helicopters over the ocean, asserting, “I don’t know, maybe because of 100-knot winds…you f*cking lunatic.”
Burr’s commentary pointed out not only the absurdity of armchair criticism but also highlighted the tremendous work of the firefighting teams battling these monumental fires. The comedian expressed gratitude for those risking their lives, aiming to bring awareness to the complexity of fire management.
The upcoming comedy show is part of a growing list of benefit events organized to aid wildfire relief efforts. Following Burr and Gillis's performance, other star-studded benefit shows are scheduled, including FireAid concerts featuring prominent artists like Lady Gaga, Joni Mitchell, and Billie Eilish. These events highlight the collaborative effort among entertainers and the community to raise funds needed for immediate and long-term assistance for wildfire victims.
Gillis’s performance not only supports the wildfire victims but also adds another date to his already ambitious 27-city global comedy tour, which kicked off earlier this month.
The L.A. wildfires have spurred numerous fundraising activities, and this comedy event sits alongside others, including benefit showings of classic films at the TCL Chinese Theatre, emphasizing the collective community effort to assist those impacted.
While the comedy show promises laughter, it also serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles many are facing. The event is not just about entertainment but is also deeply intertwined with the effort to provide aid to individuals and families who have lost their homes.
Across California, many hotels are stepping up by offering discounted or free accommodations for evacuees displaced by the wildfires, showcasing the unity and resilience of communities come together during such crises.
With every ticket sold and every donation made through the Wildfire Relief Fund, attendees of the comedy show on January 27 will be contributing directly to the relief efforts, helping to facilitate much-needed support for those affected by this natural disaster.
The collaboration between Burr and Gillis not only aims to entertain but also hopes to uplift those who have suffered and recognize the importance of community support.