Tyler Perry criticizes insurance companies for ‘greed’ during LA wildfires
Tyler Perry is raising his voice against insurance companies in light of the destructive wildfires in Los Angeles.
On Sunday, the filmmaker took to Instagram to express his concerns regarding insurers who are canceling policies in California as wildfires become increasingly frequent.
“Isn’t it shocking that insurance companies can profit billions from communities over the years, only to suddenly be allowed to cancel millions of policies for those same customers?” Perry stated.
As California faces more wildfire incidents, many insurers have opted to leave the state, making it tougher for homeowners to protect their properties.
Reflecting on these changes, Perry remarked: “Seeing a daughter trying to protect her elderly parents’ home with a garden hose after their insurance was revoked was heart-wrenching.”
Reportedly, in 2024, State Farm, the largest insurer in California, reduced policies in the Santa Monica Mountains, affecting about 1,600 homeowners in Pacific Palisades, or 70% of their clients, according to The New York Times.
The California FAIR plan, a state-run alternative utilized by many left without coverage by larger insurers, has stepped in to assist some especially fire-prone communities.
At the close of 2024, the state’s insurance commissioner implemented a policy to enhance coverage in areas impacted by wildfires, as many insurers reduced their offerings following earlier catastrophic fires.
Allstate, which had halted all new policies in California in 2022, showed interest in re-entering the market after this new measure was adopted, according to The New York Times.
In his post, Perry accused insurers of pulling back on coverage due to greed.
“People who have paid their premiums for a lifetime are being left with nothing because of sheer greed,” he expressed. “As I attempt to determine how best to assist as many as possible, know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.”
Perry is among many celebrities voicing their concerns about the wildfires, whether criticizing California’s leadership or sharing their personal losses.
Stars like Halle Berry, Beyoncé, and Jamie Lee Curtis have stepped up to support victims, donating clothing and significant amounts of money.
The fires, which have devastated extensive areas of Southern California, continued to pose a threat on Monday, with winds expected to intensify throughout the week.
These winds could jeopardize the slight progress made by firefighters over the weekend on the Pacific Palisades Fire, which is the most destructive fire in Los Angeles’ history. As of late Sunday, it was only 13% contained, having burned 36 square miles and left the community in ruins.
So far, at least 24 individuals have lost their lives due to the Eaton and Palisades fires, the two largest blazes, reported the Los Angeles County medical examiner. The Palisades Fire accounted for at least eight of these deaths, while 16 fatalities were linked to the Eaton Fire.
Contributing: Trevor Hughes, Susan Miller,