Child Star Rory Sykes Dies in Malibu Fires, Mom Heartbroken

Former Inspirational Personality Dies at 32 in L.A. Fires After Mom Couldn’t Save Him: ‘My Heart Is Shattered’

Rory Sykes, once an icon of resilience, lost his life during the devastating Malibu fires, his family confirmed.

An Australian man and former child star known for his inspirational story of overcoming disabilities has tragically died in the recent Malibu wildfires, his family has confirmed.

Rory Callum Sykes, 32, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 8, at his family’s estate in Malibu, Calif. His mother, Shelley Sykes, announced the heartbreaking news in an emotional post on X, formerly Twitter.

“It’s with unimaginable sadness that I share the loss of my beautiful son, Rory,” Shelley wrote on Jan. 9. “The Malibu fires took him away from us yesterday. My heart is shattered beyond words.”

Rory, born blind and living with cerebral palsy, became a symbol of hope and resilience as a child. He gained recognition for his motivational speeches, inspiring audiences worldwide with his determination to overcome adversity.

According to his mother, Rory was staying in a cottage on their 17-acre estate when the fire engulfed the property.

“I tried to save him,” Shelley wrote. “I grabbed the hose to douse the flames on his roof, but there was no water… even the firefighters had none. We were helpless.”

Amid mounting criticism of resource shortages, Los Angeles officials confirmed there was a temporary drop in water pressure as emergency services struggled to meet the overwhelming demand during the fires.

A Life of Courage and Inspiration

Rory’s journey was nothing short of remarkable. Born in London, Rory faced significant challenges from the start. Despite his disabilities, he underwent multiple surgeries and therapies to regain his sight and learn to walk. His mother chronicled his story in a bestselling memoir, Against All Odds.

“He never let his pain stop him,” Shelley said. “He wanted to see the world, experience life, and give back to others.”

Rory relocated to Sydney, Australia, in his 20s, where he co-founded the charitable organization Happy Charity with his mother, dedicated to helping children with disabilities. Recently, he moved to the United States to expand their efforts and pursue new opportunities.

In addition to his philanthropic work, Rory was an avid gamer and an investor. He often shared updates with his followers about his passions, including his love for RuneScape and his plans to develop a disability-friendly gaming community.

Trapped by the Flames

When the fire broke out on Jan. 8, Rory was alone in his cottage. Shelley, who was recovering from a broken arm, said she tried desperately to rescue her son but was physically unable to lift him.

“He told me, ‘Mom, just go.’ But no mother can leave their child,” Shelley tearfully told Australian outlet 10 News First. “I couldn’t move him. I couldn’t save him.”

The cottage was reduced to ashes within hours, and Rory succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning, fire officials later confirmed.

Community Mourns a Beloved Figure

News of Rory’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from friends, fans, and those he inspired over the years.

“Rory was a beacon of hope for so many,” one user wrote on X. “His strength and positivity were unmatched. The world has lost a truly special soul.”

Others shared memories of Rory’s motivational talks, where he encouraged audiences to embrace life’s challenges with courage and optimism.

“He always said, ‘Your limits are only what you believe them to be,’” said his former mentor, Dr. Ian Marlow. “Rory lived by those words every day.”

Devastating Toll of the L.A. Fires

Rory’s death is one of at least 11 confirmed fatalities caused by the Malibu wildfires, which began on Tuesday, Jan. 7. Fire officials are still working to contain the blaze, which has destroyed hundreds of homes and forced thousands to evacuate.

Australian officials confirmed they are providing consular assistance to Rory’s family but declined to comment further due to privacy concerns.

Shelley has called for greater resources to prevent such tragedies in the future, saying, “No family should have to endure this. We need better preparedness, better support for those who can’t evacuate.”

Remembering Rory

Rory’s legacy as a motivator, philanthropist, and fighter will live on, his family said.

“He made the world a better place,” Shelley wrote. “Even in his hardest moments, he thought of others. That’s who he was.”

A memorial fund has been set up in Rory’s name to support children with disabilities, continuing the work he was so passionate about.

“He may be gone,” Shelley said, “but his light will never fade.”