When a familiar face from “The Office” popped onto screens at six California high schools, seniors braced for a classic Michael Scott-style prank. Instead, Steve Carell delivered a real-life plot twist: free prom tickets for hundreds of students impacted by the devastating Eaton Fire. This time, the punchline was pure kindness.
“Attention. Attention all seniors,” Carell said in a selfie-style video, his mock-serious tone melting into warmth. “This is Steve Carell, with a very special announcement.” The actor, known for his cringe-comedy character’s empty promises, flipped the script entirely. Partnering with nonprofit Alice’s Kids, he revealed that prom costs for over 800 students would be covered — no strings attached. “Have fun, enjoy the prom,” he added. “And remember: This is Steve Carell. Take it easy, guys.”
Firefighters try to protect a structure from the Eaton Fire in Altadena, Calif., in January. AP Photo
The gesture was a balm for teens whose lives were upended by the Eaton Fire, which destroyed homes and scorched thousands of acres earlier this year. Many students, though still attending physically intact schools, lost everything. “They’re still going to school, but they don’t have a home,” said Ron Fitzsimmons, executive director of Alice’s Kids. His charity, which typically funds individual needs like sports gear or school supplies, shifted focus to provide $175,000 for prom tickets. “The prom is a party, and more than anything, these kids need a party,” Fitzsimmons said.
They need something that is uplifting.”
For Carell, the cause was personal. He and his wife, Nancy, have supported Alice’s Kids for years, drawn to its mission of anonymous aid. “The idea is to preserve the dignity of the child,” Fitzsimmons said, explaining that donations are discreetly funneled through teachers or caregivers. When asked to announce the prom gift, Carell didn’t hesitate. “He said ‘yes’ right away,” Fitzsimmons said, noting the actor’s “Office” fandom among students added to the excitement the teens had when they heard the news.
Fire damage in Altadena. Photo by the Washington Post
School leaders echoed the sentiment. “This means everything to our students,” said Lori Touloumian, principal of Marshall Fundamental Secondary School. “It brought so much joy this morning, and that’s something our students have really been missing.” Byron Flitsch of Aveson Charter called Carell’s involvement “beyond epic,” adding, “What a kind gesture for our students.”
While tuxedos and dresses aren’t covered, local organizations nationwide offer free prom attire—a silver lining for families rebuilding. As for Fitzsimmons, he’s RSVP’ing to proms himself. “These kids totally deserve this,” he said, eager to see seniors dance past their hardships.
