Michael Jackson’s famous home in Neverland is in the path of a wildfire in Southern California.
Per TMZThe Santa Barbara County property is perilously close to a blaze called the Lake Fire, which has prompted evacuations.
Earlier this year, the sprawling home and amusement park were renovated in preparation for a biopic about the late singer’s life.
Jackson’s nephew Jaafar, a talented singer and dancer, will play his uncle.
The property was purchased by Jackson in 1988 and has been reconstructed. Filming will take place ahead of the film’s scheduled release on April 18, 2025.
Michael Jackson’s famous Neverland home is near a wildfire in Southern California; Jackson pictured in 2003
According to TMZ, the Santa Barbara County estate is perilously close to a blaze dubbed the Lake Fire, which has prompted evacuations (Neverland, seen in 2001)
Aerial photos taken in April show that the rides, tents and children’s trains have all been rebuilt, as well as a Ferris wheel and a replica of Jackson’s carousel.
Other photos show a reconstruction of the star’s large red-and-white circus tent, and the red train that transports visitors through the park.
Billionaire Ron Burkle, a financial advisor to Michael, purchased the Neverland mansion in December 2020 for $22 million.
He bought the property for nearly $80 million less than the asking price.
The residence is inspired by the novel Peter Pan by JM Barrie.
Speaking to the Wall Street Journal Shortly after purchasing the property, Burkle explained that he wanted to give it a makeover by repairing the train station, upgrading the roads and eventually getting the railroad back up and running.
“It was kind of a depressing place. It wasn’t the beautiful place it used to be. It just needed flowers and life again,” he said.
After the purchase, the petting zoo was reopened and animals were reintroduced.
The fire, which is located in Los Olivos, is creeping closer to the late pop legend’s estate (the Lake Fire that was seen on Saturday)
The flames and smoke have given the sky and surroundings a sepia tint
Michael pictured with his then wife Lisa Presley at his famous Neverland Ranch
Before Burkle invested, Neverland had been for sale on and off since 2016.
It fell into disrepair after police raided the ranch and charged the King of Pop with seven counts of child abuse.
Although he was acquitted, Jackson vowed never to set foot in Neverland again.
The ranch had several guest houses, a 50-seat movie theater, a swimming pool with a cabana, and basketball and tennis courts.
Jackson gave the estate a fantasy feel so that his young fans could enjoy it when they visited. However, he was accused by several alleged victims of abusing them at the ranch.