The Unlikely Heroism of Spencer Pratt
In the aftermath of a devastating wildfire, a new chapter unfolds for Spencer Pratt, once known as a reality TV villain. As he stands amidst the ruins of his beloved Pacific Palisades home, a symbol of resilience takes flight - the hummingbirds. These tiny creatures, a reminder of survival, have returned to Pratt's scorched hillside, offering a moment of solace amidst the anger and grief.
At 42, Pratt has embraced an unexpected role - that of a passionate advocate for the Palisades community. His wife, Heidi, shares his pain, but it is Pratt who channels his emotions into a relentless pursuit of accountability. "I'm just fuming right now," he declares, "we should be sitting in our living room."
But here's where it gets controversial... Pratt, along with other affected residents, has taken legal action against the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, arguing that the fire was not a natural disaster but a result of gross negligence. He questions the authorities' preparedness and their response to the wildfire, which claimed lives and destroyed thousands of structures.
"This was no act of God," Pratt asserts, "it was an act of idiocy." He believes that the tragedy could have been prevented, and his anger fuels his determination to seek justice.
Heidi, who finds solace in their new life in Santa Barbara, sees her husband's activism as heroic. "He's going beyond himself," she says, "he's being a good example for our children."
For those familiar with Pratt's chaotic persona, this transformation may come as a surprise. But Pratt, now in his unlikely third act, embraces his role as a champion for the community he calls home.
The hummingbirds, a symbol of resilience, inspire Pratt to keep fighting. "A hummingbird just doesn't stop," he says, mirroring their determination.
Pratt's outspoken criticism of government agencies and his pursuit of answers have caught the attention of national Republicans. His social media posts, a constant stream of accusations and demands for accountability, have led to meetings with influential figures, including U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi.
But Pratt bristles at the label "activist." He sees himself as a taxpayer, using his platform to speak out against what he perceives as dereliction of duty. "I'm fighting for the people who lost their homes," he says, "mostly Democrats."
His actions have already influenced policy. Pratt's online commentary led to the withdrawal of a proposed bill on wildfire rebuilding, and he continues to push for change, even if it means flying to Washington, D.C., at his own expense.
However, California's Democratic establishment views Citizen Pratt with disdain. They accuse him of creating confusion and politicizing the issue. Pratt, undeterred, responds with a challenge: "I'm sure my appearance would look better if Newsom hadn't let my town burn down."
As he surveys the leveled neighborhood, Pratt reflects on his childhood in the Palisades. The community, once a haven of affluence, has now become a symbol of ultra-wealth. He sees himself as a voice for the old guard, the upper-middle-class residents and non-A-list celebrities.
Pratt's personal life has also been impacted. He and Heidi, who found fame on The Hills, are now raising their young sons in a rented apartment in Santa Monica. The couple's insurance under the California FAIR Plan falls short of their rebuilding needs, and they face an uncertain future.
Despite these challenges, Pratt remains focused on his mission. He and Heidi recently launched a video podcast, The Fame Game, where they discuss pop culture and personal revelations. The show has featured guests like former Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva, adding a political dimension to their platform.
And this is the part most people miss... Pratt's activism has not only influenced policy but also shaped his own career. He is set to star in an "artsy indie film" directed by James Franco and publish his memoir, "The Guy You Loved to Hate: Confessions From a Reality TV Villain."
As Pratt prepares for these new ventures, he reflects on the discordant turn his year has taken. From reality TV villain to public policy advocate, he is ready to move on from the anger and focus on the future.
"I'm ready to jump back to talking about Dancing With the Stars," he says, leaving us with a glimpse of the lighter side of his personality.
This story, a testament to resilience and transformation, appeared in the Oct. 15 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine.
