'My Heart Bleeds': Jennifer Garner Reveals She Lost a Friend amid California Wildfires

Jennifer Garner's grief deepened as she faced the loss of a dear friend in the California wildfires shortly after saying goodbye to a beloved family member.

Jennifer Garner revealed in an emotional interview with MSNBC's Katy Tur that she lost a dear friend in the devastating California wildfires. As the fires continue to claim lives and destroy homes, Garner has stepped up to help, partnering with a renowned chef to support impacted communities.

"I did lose a friend who did not get out in time," the 52-year-old actress said. "It's just — my heart bleeds for my friends. I mean, I can think of 100 families, and there are 5,000 homes lost."

Struggling with grief and gratitude, Garner reflected on her safety amid the devastation. "I feel almost guilty walking through my house," she admitted. "Just, you know, what can I do? How can I help? What can I offer? What do I have to offer with these hands and these walls and the safety that I have?"

Reflecting on her loss, she said, "I'm looking at the chimney of somebody that I loved. [...] It's awful — kind of unimaginable." Garner expressed her determination to support wildfire survivors.

In response to the wildfires, Garner has partnered with Chef José Andrés and his organization, World Central Kitchen, to assist affected communities. She shared how she found a way to contribute, "I took advantage of a little bit of celebrity privilege and called Chef and said, 'Please, can I come with you?'"

Besides working with Andrés, Garner said that the Save the Children organization has also worked hand-in-hand with the Red Cross to ensure shelters are equipped for families. She emphasized the importance of supporting parents and children during this challenging time.

The actress praised Andrés' ability to mobilize relief efforts quickly and efficiently. "It is an incredible thing to watch somebody — to watch World Central Kitchen and Chef José just come in and say, 'We've got this handled. Don't worry. We've got you,'" she explained.

While Garner's actions highlight the compassion and resilience emerging from the tragedy, the story of Rory Sykes underscores the devastating human toll of the wildfires.

Sykes, a former child star, was born on July 29, 1992, in West Yorkshire, United Kingdom. He tragically lost his life on January 8, in Malibu, California.

His mother, Shelley Sykes, announced the heartbreaking news on X, "It is with great sadness that I have to announce the death of my beautiful son @Rorysykes to the Malibu fires yesterday. I'm totally heart broken."

She described her son as "a true humanitarian" and recounted his inspiring journey of overcoming blindness and cerebral palsy through surgeries and therapies. She added, "Despite the pain, he still enthused about traveling the world with me from Africa to Antarctica."

As of January 12, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has confirmed 24 fire-related deaths. This figure underscores the devastating impact of the wildfires, which continue to displace families and destroy lives.

Before the wildfires devastated the area, Garner also mourned the loss of her beloved dog, just a day before Thanksgiving in November 2024.

In an emotional Instagram post, the actress shared the news with her followers, calling Birdie "the world's best dog."

"It is hard to know how to write this— it seems nuts, given the world, to mourn a pet, but since we have shared Birdie with all of you, it only seems fair to let you know of her passing," Garner wrote. She explained that Birdie had suddenly fallen ill on Thursday, and a visit to the vet revealed her pet was at the end of her life.

Garner expressed gratitude for the timing, noting that Birdie seemed to wait for one of her children to come home from college. This allowed the family to spend their final moments together, petting Birdie's soft ears and thanking her for the love she brought into their lives.

For the actress, Birdie was more than a pet—she was a treasured family member. The golden retriever had a special love for being read to and frequently appeared in Garner's popular Instagram series, "Pretend Cooking Show." She was also a therapy dog who brought comfort and joy to many.

"She lived a happy dog life and is now in the role she was born to play: angel girl. It's a gift to love and be loved by such a creature as Birdie the Doggie. 🐾🪽," Garner shared, accompanied by photos and videos of her time with Birdie.

One clip showed the two lounging on a sofa as Garner read William Steig's "Pete's a Pizza," both donning reading glasses. Another captured her tenderly singing to Birdie while cradling her, playfully using Birdie's paws to accompany the tune.

Garner's heartfelt post resonated deeply with her followers and an outpouring of condolences from friends and celebrities followed. "Black-ish" star Tracee Ellis Ross commented, "🐾🐾🐾🐾❤️❤️❤️❤️ these furry beings bring so much goodness." Meanwhile, "Friends" alum Jennifer Aniston added, "Oh Jen…💔I'm so sorry. Sending so much love."

Chef Ina Garten also wrote her sympathies, "Oh Jennifer, I'm heartbroken for you!!! She was the best buddy and always up for an adventure with all of you. Sending my love to you and the kids. I'm so glad they're home with you now. Birdie will be eating turkey in heaven."

Amid her losses during the California wildfires, Jennifer Garner has focused on supporting affected communities, demonstrating the importance of collective efforts in challenging times.