The star of Netflix’s Selling Sunset, Jason Oppenheim, has announced that the show’s ninth season is currently not being filmed because of the wildfires affecting parts of Los Angeles. In a conversation with Business Insider, Oppenheim confirmed that filming had started initially but came to a halt due to the escalating natural disaster.

Netflix has yet to announce the ninth season’s reseason’sficially. However, several cast members, including Mary Bonnet, Chelsea Lazkani, and Amanza Smith, have hinted on social media that production is currently in progress. The streaming platform has refused to comment on the matter.

Los Angeles Fires: A Crisis Impacting Thousands

For almost a week, the devastating fires in Los Angeles County have been burning, engulfing over 40,000 acres, destroying 12,300 structures, and displacing more than 100,000 residents. At the very least, 24 lives have been lost, which is tragic. Oppenheim and his team have stepped up to support those affected by a citywide response to the widespread impact. Oppenheim stated that the Oppenheim Group has taken significant measures to aid victims.

“We’ve paused filming so we can focus on our efforts right now,” he said.

The efforts involve organizing donation drives, making financial contributions to the Los Angeles Police and Fire Departments, and offering free representation to fire victims who lost their homes. Oppenheim posted on Instagram with a heartfelt message stating that his brokerage will refund any commissions earned from transactions involving fire victims.

“This is a time for people to give back financially, not seek financial gain,” he emphasized.

Addressing the Aftermath: A Community in Need

Oppenheim emphasized that his team has been swamped with requests from fire victims seeking new residences, particularly in areas such as Santa Monica, Brentwood, and Pacific Palisades. The surge in demand for rental properties has highlighted the disaster’s unfortunate side effect of price gouging.

“Landlords that think they’re going to get away with this will end up in a lawsuit,” Oppenheim warned. He urged property owners to act responsibly during this challenging time, reminding them of the importance of community over profit. “This is not a time to exploit others. It’s a time to come together and support those in need.”

Impact on Cast Members and Production

Oppenheim didn’t confirm if any cast members of Selling Sunset were directly affected by the fires, but he acknowledged that several of his agents and other celebrities have lost their homes. The brokerage’s top priority is to represent those individuals and their families.

The team’s decision to suspend filming is a reflection of their dedication to focusing on relief efforts and meeting the needs of their community.

“We’ve had dozens of people reaching out to us, needing houses for themselves and their families,” Oppenheim said. “Our priority is helping those who’ve lost everything.”

A Community in Solidarity

Jason Oppenheim and his team, who were at the forefront of recovery efforts, have demonstrated the resilience and compassion of the local community during the Los Angeles fires. In times of crisis, the Oppenheim Group has shown the meaning of giving back by prioritizing relief and offering pro bono services.

Selling Sunset fans may see this period in the show as the city recovers, but Oppenheim is unsure about how the disaster will be addressed on camera. As of now, the primary focus is on aiding those affected in rebuilding their lives. According to Oppenheim, “This is a time for people to put aside any opportunities for financial gain and come together to support our community.”