Celebrity Mansions Submerged as Thames Floods Berkshire Homes
The lavish residences of Hollywood star George Clooney, comedian Russell Brand, and former Strictly dancer Debbie McGee in Berkshire have been left swamped and severely damaged after the River Thames burst its banks, unleashing flash flooding across the surrounding areas. The trio of celebrities, who all live near the river's edge, are facing unprecedented water levels as Britain endures relentless rainfall this year.
Flood Alerts and Warnings Issued
Flood warnings have been activated for Remenham, where controversial comic Russell Brand resides, and Wargrave, home to Debbie McGee. Meanwhile, George Clooney and his human rights lawyer wife, Amal, own a property in Sonning, valued at an estimated £12 million, which has seen its sprawling garden and tennis courts inundated. The government's flooding service continues to monitor risks, urging locals to "be prepared" as flooding remains possible in designated zones. Officials state that low-lying land and roads in Henley, Remenham, and Medmenham are expected to remain flooded over the coming days, with further rainfall forecasted.
Debbie McGee's Repeated Flood Ordeals
Debbie McGee's £3 million home, which she shared with her late husband Paul Daniels for 18 years, is surrounded by water despite a previously installed pumping system that has now failed. Last year, flooding forced her out, and she spent weeks overseeing repairs after the property was "destroyed", according to a friend. Her insurance company has been supportive, but the recurring incidents highlight the vulnerability of riverside homes.
Russell Brand's Historic Property Swamped
Russell Brand's £3.3 million home, built in 1897 and once owned by royalty, has its back garden completely covered in water, extending to the front of the property. Flooding is anticipated to persist until at least February 13. Brand, who splits his time between the UK and Florida, recently appeared via videolink at Westminster Magistrates' Court facing new allegations of rape and sexual assault, adding to existing charges he denies, with a trial set for June.
George Clooney's Grade II Listed Home Submerged
George and Amal Clooney's 17th-century Grade II listed property, worth between £10 and £12 million, has been completely submerged by the floods. The couple purchased the home in 2014 and spent nearly two years refurbishing it, adding features like a swimming pool, boathouse, and private cinema. In recent years, flooding has led to a drop in property prices in the area, with the current incident engulfing landscape gardens and tennis courts.
The ongoing situation underscores the broader impact of climate-related weather events on affluent and historic communities, with authorities warning that river levels will remain high and responsive to further rainfall.
