Josh Flagg Apologizes & Explains What Really Happened After Recent Backlash in Honest Response

Josh Flagg is setting the record straight after facing criticism over a social media post that many called “tone deaf.” The “Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles” star, 39, came under fire after his Instagram account shared a now-deleted photo announcing the sale of two Malibu beachfront homes destroyed in this year’s deadly wildfires — one sold for $5 million and the other for $4.65 million. The post quickly sparked backlash, with fans accusing him of insensitivity. Now, the Bravo star is clarifying what happened, apologizing, and highlighting the work he’s done to help Malibu rebuild.

MDLLA Star Receives Backlash Over Burnt Malibu Home Post

Bravo Snark Side Instagram

The controversy began when Bravo fan page Bravo Snark Side reposted a screenshot of the original listing announcement, writing, “Wow talk about tone deaf.” Commenters agreed, calling the post “in very poor taste,” “horrific,” and “unnecessary.”

“Good for you, but this seems very unnecessary. Triggering and heartbreaking for a lot of people,” one user wrote.

Another questioned, “Selling burnt homes… is that the new thing?” Others criticized the post for showcasing “ravaged homes” being resold to corporations and the ultra-wealthy, claiming it further prices out average residents. Words like “really tacky” and “didn’t need to be posted” filled the comment section, while one commenter quipped, “We need the unheart icon.”

Josh Flagg Responds: ‘The Photo Was a Mistake’

Speaking to TMZ on August 13, Flagg insisted he did not personally post the controversial image. “I’m not going to sit back while people question my character,” he said. “The photo used in my recent post was a mistake. My marketing team posted it without my review or approval… I was on a transatlantic flight when it went up. I’m sorry if it offended anyone.”

Flagg explained that he has worked with multiple beachfront sellers whose properties were damaged by the fires, and he believes these transactions symbolize community recovery. “Anybody who knows me knows I worked hard to help — placing families who lost homes, speaking out weekly on CNN and FOX, and pushing back on idiotic policies that slowed rebuilding,” he continued. “Those sales aren’t just transactions — they’re helping Malibu residents rebuild and restore neighborhoods. Showing progress is a positive sign because it means a faster recovery and a brighter future for the community.”

He also revealed that he’s fought against price gouging, spoken out about needed recovery measures, and even opened his own home to displaced residents, including “Fashion Police” alum Melissa Rivers. “When you’re a public figure, you’re celebrated for the good and criticized for the bad. But calling me insensitive is not accurate,” he concluded.

Heather and Terry Dubrow Sell Beverly Hills Estate With Josh Flagg’s Help

While addressing backlash, Flagg has also been busy closing another high-profile deal. “The Real Housewives of Orange County” stars Heather Dubrow and Terry Dubrow have officially sold their Beverly Hills home with the help of Flagg and fellow “Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles” agent Josh Altman.

According to TMZ, the 2023 “dream house,” purchased by the Dubrows for $16 million, sold on August 11 for $16.5 million. Sources told the outlet the buyer wasn’t a celebrity, but someone who had “lingering regrets” after missing the chance to buy it last year.

Flagg celebrated the sale on Instagram, reposting the article and sharing photos of the home’s exterior. “JUST SOLD,” he captioned the post. “Last offered at $19,995,000.”

Tell us! Do you think Josh Flagg was being “tone deaf” with his Instagram post? Let us know in the comments below.