Palisades Fire Destroys Iconic High School Used In Films Like ‘Carrie,’ ‘Freaky Friday’

A fierce wildfire swept through the Palisades area on Tuesday evening, ravaging the Palisades Charter High School (PCHS)—a location synonymous with Hollywood history. By 5:30 p.m., flames had consumed the school’s baseball field, partially destroyed the football stadium, and caused significant damage to other buildings, including the nearby Theatre Palisades.

With wind gusts reaching up to 40 mph, embers spread rapidly, leaving the once-thriving campus in ruins. Fortunately, the school’s 3,000 students were on winter break and not present during the disaster. Authorities have urged families to stay away from the area and adhere to evacuation orders while the school works to reassess its spring semester schedule.

Palisades Charter High School was used for a number of Hollywood films

Since its establishment in 1961, PCHS has been more than just an educational institution; it has served as a backdrop for numerous films, TV shows, and music videos. The school was famously featured as Bates High School in the horror classic Carrie (1976) and as Beacon Hills High School in the supernatural drama Teen Wolf.

In the early 2000s, it set the stage for the remake of Freaky Friday and the chaotic teen comedy Project X. Its distinctive architecture also appeared in Olivia Rodrigo’s music video for “Good 4 U,” filmed in the locker rooms and sports facilities.

Palisades Charter High School has A-list star alumni

Beyond its cinematic fame, PCHS has nurtured some of Hollywood’s brightest stars. Forest Whitaker, known for roles in Black Panther and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, once roamed the school halls. Filmmaker J.J. Abrams, Oscar-nominated actress Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Grammy-winning musician will.i.am are among its notable graduates.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Other prominent names that passed through the iconic school include Amy Smart, Adam Shankman, and basketball legend Steve Kerr. Fans have taken to social media to express their sadness at the disaster hitting the school. “I just can’t believe what’s happened… It’s shocking, terrifying, and gut-wrenching,” someone lamented.