Ricki Lake Opens Up About ‘Losing Everything’ One Year After California Wildfires

Ricki Lake opened up about her life when she dropped a new batch of laid-back pics on Instagram on Sunday, February 8, pulling back the curtain on a deeply personal return to Ojai, California, nearly one year after losing her Malibu home and belongings in the devastating California wildfires.

The former talk show powerhouse and actress, 57, kicked things off with a sun-soaked selfie that showed her looking calm, makeup-free, and totally unplugged. Rocking a wide-brim straw hat, rose-tinted aviator shades, and cozy neutral layers, the Hairspray star leaned hard into the off-the-grid vibe. Between the fuzzy-trimmed quilted vest and relaxed sweater, Lake looked like she was fully embracing the healing energy — California-style.

Another snap showed Lake barefoot beside a sleek pool, arms thrown high in the air in what looked like a triumphant, borderline spiritual moment. She kept it casual in a striped long-sleeve top, loose jeans, and a simple hat, soaking in the peaceful surroundings of her close friend’s lush compound.

One more photo showed two small dogs trotting across a wooden bridge over a creek — including Lake’s own pet, who was forced to evacuate with her during the wildfires and whom she previously described as “traumatized,” making the sweet moment an emotional callback to their shared escape.

In her caption, Lake reflected on fleeing her Malibu home during the January 2025 fires, writing that she, her husband, and their dog sought refuge in Ojai after “losing everything.” Nearly a year later, she returned to the same sanctuary, calling it a full-circle moment packed with healing, laughter, and gratitude.

Fans flooded the comments with purple hearts, prayer emojis, and love — with one follower shouting out, “We see you. We love you. Thank you for being so personable.”