L.A. Wildfires Destroyed Ricki Lake’s Movie Memorabilia, But an Old Friend Came to Her Aid

In January 2025, actress and former talk show host Ricki Lake endured a devastating loss when wildfires swept through Los Angeles, destroying her Pacific Palisades home. The house she shared with husband Ross Burningham—the couple’s “dream home” where they married in 2022—was reduced to ashes. Along with the memories of the home itself, Lake lost an extensive collection of movie memorabilia accumulated throughout her career, including a cherished vintage T-shirt from her breakout role in Hairspray.

A Personal and Professional Treasure Lost

The Hairspray T-shirt symbolized both Lake’s early acting career and her enduring connection with writer-director John Waters. The shirt featured a graphic of Lake as Tracy Turnblad and the late Divine as Edna Turnblad, Tracy’s on-screen mother. Lake had proudly worn the shirt in interviews and social media posts over the years, making it a beloved emblem of her beginnings in film.

Its loss was deeply felt, as the item represented more than clothing; it was a tangible piece of Lake’s personal and professional history.

A Heartfelt Gesture from an Old Friend

Months after the fire, Lake was touched by an unexpected act of kindness. James Baggett, a longtime friend and former editor of teen magazine Splice whom she met in 1987, sent her replacement T-shirts—including the Hairspray shirt and a publicity shirt for Waters’ film Cry-Baby, in which Lake also starred alongside Johnny Depp.

Lake shared a photo of the shirts alongside Baggett’s handwritten letter, expressing her gratitude with warmth and humor. She noted the shirts were XXXL, “big enough to fit my biggest fan, my giant husband,” as her husband Ross proudly wore the Hairspray tee with a bright smile.

A New Chapter in New York City

After the fire, Lake relocated to New York City. She has since reflected publicly on the “blessings” that have come from the tragedy, including rebuilding her art collection and spending more quality time with her two sons, Milo and Owen, from her previous marriage.

In a heartfelt birthday tribute to her son Owen this June, Lake praised the silver linings that emerged despite the loss, underscoring her resilience and family focus during this difficult time.

Hope and Resilience Amid Loss

Lake’s story is one of loss but also healing and generosity. The gift from an old friend not only replaced cherished memorabilia but reaffirmed the bonds of friendship and the power of connection in hard times.

Her experience reminds us that even in devastation, support and kindness can restore hope and help rebuild new memories.

Summary

Ricki Lake lost her Pacific Palisades home and treasured movie memorabilia, including a vintage Hairspray T-shirt, to the 2025 L.A. wildfires. A dear friend’s thoughtful gift of replacement shirts brought comfort and joy during a challenging period. Now based in New York City, Lake embraces fresh starts, family togetherness, and the kindness that emerges from adversity.