NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Los Angeles, CA, January 12, 2025: The Pacific Palisades home owned by the late actor Matthew Perry narrowly escaped destruction in the recent wildfires that ravaged the area. Now owned by Indian American real estate developer and film producer Anita Verma-Lallian, the property was spared in what has been described as a miraculous outcome amidst widespread devastation.
Verma-Lallian, known for her pioneering work in South Asian representation in film through her company Camelback Productions, purchased the home in 2024. The house is where Perry lived and tragically passed away in 2023
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Verma-Lallian shared her anguish over the fires and gratitude for the community’s efforts. “My heart is absolutely broken over the devastating fires in the Palisades,” she wrote. “Seeing it engulfed in flames feels like a personal loss, like losing a part of our hearts.”
Verma-Lallian went on to thank the firefighters and neighbors who worked tirelessly to protect her home and the surrounding area. “It’s been such a tough week, but we are incredibly thankful to have learned that our house is okay. We want to express our deepest gratitude to the brave firefighters, our amazing neighbors, and the entire Palisades community for their help, strength, and support during this heartbreaking time,” she added.
Verma-Lallian, who had a traditional Hindu blessing ceremony at the house shortly after purchasing it, emphasized the deep connection she and her family feel to the area. “Its beauty, its sense of community, and the peace it offered made it feel like the perfect place to call home,” she wrote.
Matthew Perry had extensively renovated the home during his ownership, including the addition of a Batman logo in the swimming pool—a feature Verma-Lallian decided to preserve to honor Perry’s legacy, according to People Magazine.
Aside from her real estate ventures, Verma-Lallian is an MBA graduate from the University of Southern California and a prominent figure in promoting South Asian stories in Hollywood. Her production company focuses on increasing diversity and representation in film.
In the wake of the fire, Verma-Lallian encouraged her followers to support relief efforts, directing them to donate to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by this tragedy, and we hope we can come together to heal, protect, and rebuild what’s been lost,” she concluded.
The Pacific Palisades community is now rallying to recover from the disaster.
Photos courtesy of Anita Verma Lallian/Instagram
Matthew Perry: Wikimedia