Hollywood is burning -- again

Southern California's studio back lots have been the scene of spectacular blazes -- accidental and intentional -- over the decades. Before Sunday's blaze, Universal Studios' back lot was hit by major fires in 1990 and 1967 (pictured), when a 12-acre blaze consumed the "European," Denver" and "Laramie" street sets.

Perhaps the biggest fire to hit a back lot took place in Culver City in December 1938 when portions of what was then the MGM lot (including the "great wall" set from 1933's "King Kong") were burned down for key scenes in "Gone With the Wind." (photo below) The fire was planned. But no one filled in Culver City residents, who flooded the fire department with calls.

-- Jesus Sanchez

Photos: Ken Lubas / Los Angeles  Times

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