A dreaded wildfire has raged through the California city of Malibu, causing immense destruction and the evacuation of thousands of its citizens. Among those endangered were celebrities like Cher and Jane Seymour, as well as The Young and the Restless’ Eileen Davidson and legendary comedic entertainer and now Days of Our Lives alum Dick Van Dyke. The soap stars shared their harrowing tales, and all are safe.

His Neighbors Were Heroes

According to NBC, the wildfire began on Monday, December 9, near a Malibu Canyon tunnel and spread rapidly because of strong winds, destroying several homes and torching over 4,000 acres. Thousands of residents were evacuated but by Thursday over 3,700 citizens were allowed to return to their homes. Among them was Van Dyke, who recounted his terrifying tale with the Today Show. In the news story, the actor shared his ring cam video, which showed him, his wife Arlene, and their pets escaping the house under evacuation orders.

“It was coming from over the hill. You could see it,” he began. “And oh my God…we got out of there.” The report alleged that Van Dyke struggled to untangle a hose when his neighbors came to the rescue. “I was trying to crawl to the car. I had exhausted myself. I couldn’t get up, and three neighbors came and carried me out. They came back and put out a little fire in the guest house and saved me.” The legend posted on Facebook: “Arlene and I have safely evacuated with our animals except for Bobo [who] escaped as we were leaving. We’re praying he’ll be okay and that our community in Serra Retreat will survive these terrible fires.”

The Nightmare Ended

Coldplay, a music band that recently had Van Dyke appear in one of their videos, responded, “Dick – we’re sending love and prayers to you, Arlene, and everyone affected by these fires. Call us if there’s anything we can do. Love Phil, Chris, Guy, Jonny, and Will ❤️.” Fortunately, Bobo the cat was found, and Van Dyke updated: “We found Bobo as soon as we arrived back home this morning. There was so much interest in his disappearance that Animal Control was called in to assist. But, thankfully, he was easy to find and not harmed ❤️.”

Y&R’s Davidson, who plays Ashley, wrote on Instagram, “The last few days have been a nightmare. Thank God we were spared. Under an evacuation warning for 48 hours is beyond frightening. I’m so grateful to the #firedepartment and everyone who bravely helped get the #franklinfire under control. And I’m so sorry for those who lost their homes. #malibustrong special mention to my lovely niece @writerannamarie 🩷” Y&R alum and DAYS star Greg Rikaart (Leo) lovingly responded, “So glad you’re all okay. ❤️❤️.”

We’re happy that, so far, everyone has been found safe!