A significant sinkhole that opened on Sea Level Drive in Malibu, the street where actor Nicolas Cage owns a beachfront property, has forced residents from their homes and rendered the road impassable for large emergency vehicles. The City of Malibu issued an emergency order Tuesday, declaring an "imminent danger" to residents after the sinkhole appeared early Tuesday morning.
Firefighters initially responded to a suspected gas main break, which led to the discovery of the sinkhole. Authorities red-tagged seven homes, deeming them unsafe for occupancy due to hazardous conditions created by the sinkhole. An additional 24 residences were slated for red-tagging because the damage to the road prevented safe vehicular access. The sinkhole is estimated to be 30 by 60 feet wide and 25 to 30 feet deep, with a substantial portion of Sea Level Drive having collapsed.
Gas service to the affected area has been shut off, and water service may also be discontinued. The scale of the threat is reportedly compounded by intensified tides and rainfall from Hurricane Marie, along with a strong El Nino forecast. The American Red Cross is establishing a temporary shelter at Malibu High School for evacuees.
Nicolas Cage purchased his home on Sea Level Drive in 2024. He has not been seen in the vicinity of the property since the sinkhole opened, and the house appeared to be under renovation, according to reports. No injuries have been reported.
The sinkhole is believed to be the result of coastal erosion. The property itself, built in the 1990s, features oceanfront views, a rooftop deck with a jacuzzi, and multiple bedrooms. Cage, an Oscar winner, is known for his extensive film career and is a member of a prominent Hollywood family. He legally changed his name to "Nick Cage" in 2025 and married Riko Shibata in 2021. They have one daughter, and he has two sons from previous relationships.