Hey there, movie buffs and Hollywood enthusiasts! Ever wondered when the iconic Hollywood sign was built? Well, you’re in for a treat! This world-famous landmark, perched high on Mount Lee in Los Angeles, has a fascinating history that’s as star-studded as Tinseltown itself. From its humble beginnings as an advertisement to becoming a global symbol of showbiz dreams, the Hollywood sign has seen it all.
Get ready to dive into the sign’s incredible journey through time. We’ll explore its birth in 1923, trace its evolution from “Hollywoodland” to simply “Hollywood,” and check out the major facelifts it’s had over the years. Plus, we’ll take a look at how this giant hillside billboard has made its mark on pop culture and become a must-see attraction for visitors from all over the world. So, grab some popcorn and let’s roll back the clock to uncover the story behind this silver screen star!
The Birth of the Hollywood Sign in 1923
The iconic Hollywood sign, a symbol of the entertainment industry, has its roots in a real estate venture. In 1923, Los Angeles witnessed the birth of this landmark, which was originally intended as a temporary advertisement for a new housing development in the Hollywood Hills.
Original Purpose as Real Estate Advertisement
The sign’s initial purpose was far from the glamorous image it holds today. It was conceived as a giant billboard to promote the “Hollywoodland” real estate development in the Upper Beachwood Canyon neighborhood. The developers behind this ambitious project included Harry Chandler, the publisher of the Los Angeles Times. Their goal was to attract potential buyers from downtown Los Angeles to this new upscale residential area.
Construction and Materials Used
The construction of the sign was a remarkable feat for its time. Workers used mules to haul wood and sheet metal up the steep slopes of Mount Lee. Each letter was an impressive structure in itself, measuring 30 feet wide and approximately 43 feet tall. The letters were constructed using 3-foot by 9-foot metal squares, held together by an intricate framework of scaffolding, pipes, wires, and telephone poles.
Dimensions and Illumination
The original “Hollywoodland” sign was a massive structure, spanning 543 feet in length. When completed, it stood as a 50-foot high, 400-foot wide monument overlooking the city. One of its most striking features was its illumination. The sign boasted 4,000 20-watt light bulbs, spaced 8 inches apart. This impressive lighting system created a dramatic effect at night, with the sign blinking in sequence: first “Holly,” then “wood,” and finally “land,” punctuated by a giant period.
The sign’s illumination was officially unveiled on December 8, 1923, marking its completion. It quickly became a high-profile beacon for the rapidly growing Los Angeles metropolis. Below the sign, a giant white dot, 35 feet in diameter with 20-watt lights on its perimeter, was constructed to further catch the eye.
Interestingly, the sign was never intended to be permanent. It was originally meant to last just 18 months. However, it has endured for nearly a century, becoming an enduring symbol of Hollywood and the entertainment industry. The sign’s journey from a temporary real estate advertisement to a cultural icon is a testament to Hollywood’s transformative power and enduring allure.
Evolution from Hollywoodland to Hollywood
The iconic Hollywood sign has undergone significant changes since its inception in 1923. Originally built as an advertisement for the Hollywoodland real estate development, the sign has transformed into a symbol of the entertainment industry and the American dream.
Removal of ‘LAND’ in 1949
The transition from “Hollywoodland” to “Hollywood” marked a pivotal moment in the sign’s history. In 1949, a crucial decision was made that would forever change the face of this famous landmark. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce took ownership of the sign and decided to remove the last four letters, “LAND,” leaving only “HOLLYWOOD”. This modification transformed the sign from a real estate advertisement into a symbol for the entire Hollywood community and the film industry at large.
The decision to remove “LAND” was not just a cosmetic change. It reflected the sign’s evolution from a temporary billboard to a permanent fixture in the Los Angeles landscape. By this time, the original Hollywoodland development had gone bankrupt due to the Great Depression, and the City of Los Angeles had taken ownership of the sign. The shortened version better represented Hollywood as a whole, rather than just one specific housing development.
Symbolism for the Film Industry
As the sign shed its original purpose, it began to take on a new role as a powerful symbol for the film industry. The transformation from “Hollywoodland” to “Hollywood” coincided with the golden age of cinema, and the sign became intrinsically linked with the glamor and allure of the movie business.
The Hollywood sign quickly became more than just a landmark; it evolved into a representation of the hopes and dreams of aspiring actors, directors, and filmmakers from around the world. It stood as a beacon for those seeking fame and fortune in the entertainment industry, embodying the essence of Hollywood’s glitzy community.
The sign’s symbolic power grew over the decades, appearing in numerous high-profile movies and becoming a cultural icon recognized globally. It has come to represent not just a place, but an entire industry and lifestyle. As Jeff Zarrinnam, chair of the Hollywood Sign Trust, aptly puts it, “I don’t think there’s a person in LA or on the planet that doesn’t know where the Hollywood sign is, or what the Hollywood sign is, or what it means to them”.
The evolution of the Hollywood sign from a real estate advertisement to a symbol of the film industry is a testament to Hollywood’s transformative power. It has become a shining monument to the entertainment industry, as culturally iconic for Los Angeles as the Golden Gate Bridge is for San Francisco. The sign’s journey mirrors the growth and changes in Hollywood itself, reflecting the industry’s ability to reinvent and adapt over time.
Today, the Hollywood sign stands as a powerful reminder of the dreams and aspirations that have drawn people to Los Angeles for generations. It continues to capture the imagination of visitors and locals alike, serving as a tangible link to the magic and allure of the silver screen.
Major Restorations and Modifications
### 1970s Deterioration and Rebuilding
The Hollywood sign, once a symbol of glamor and dreams, faced a period of significant decline in the 1970s. By the mid-1970s, the iconic landmark had fallen into a state of disrepair, despite being officially recognized as a cultural landmark. The sign was “rusted, dilapidated, soon to literally crumble under its own weight,” according to the Hollywood Sign Trust. The deterioration was so severe that the top of the ‘D’ and the entire third ‘O’ toppled down Mount Lee, while an arsonist set fire to the bottom of the second ‘L’.
This decay prompted a major restoration effort in 1978. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce determined that the sign required a complete rebuilding, with an estimated cost of a quarter million dollars. In today’s currency, accounting for inflation, this would be equivalent to approximately USD 1.20 million.
The rebuilding project was a massive undertaking. The old sign was completely scrapped in August 1978, leaving Hollywood without its famous landmark for three months. The new structure was built using 194 tons of concrete, enamel, and steel, resulting in a more durable and permanent installation. The new letters stood an impressive 44 feet tall and ranged from 31 to 39 feet wide.
Celebrity Involvement in Preservation
The restoration of the Hollywood sign wouldn’t have been possible without the involvement of several celebrities and prominent figures in the entertainment industry. Hugh Hefner, the founder of Playboy magazine, emerged as a champion for the cause. He hosted a fundraiser at the Playboy mansion, where individual letters of the sign were symbolically auctioned off to celebrities for USD 27,700 each.
This star-studded effort saw contributions from various entertainment personalities. Rock star Alice Cooper pledged USD 27,700 to rebuild the third “O” in honor of comedian Groucho Marx. Warner Bros. Records followed suit, contributing the same amount for the second “O”. Other notable donors included singer Andy Williams, who sponsored the “W,” and Gene Autry, who along with KTLA, contributed to the second “L”.
The campaign to save the sign gained momentum rapidly. Terrance Donnelly, publisher of the Hollywood Independent newspaper, donated for the “H,” while Dennis Lidtke of Gribbitt Graphics sponsored the “D”. Italian movie producer Giovanni Mazza and Les Kelley, founder of the Kelley Blue Book, rounded out the donations for the remaining letters.
This collective effort not only restored the physical structure but also revitalized the sign’s symbolic importance. The new version of the Hollywood sign was unveiled on November 11, 1978, as part of a live CBS television special commemorating the 75th anniversary of Hollywood’s incorporation as a city.
The restoration in 1978 marked a turning point in the history of when the Hollywood sign was built, transforming it from a deteriorating advertisement into a renewed symbol of the entertainment industry. This collaborative effort between celebrities and the community ensured that the iconic landmark would continue to represent the dreams and aspirations of Hollywood for generations to come.
The Sign’s Cultural Impact and Legacy
The Hollywood Sign has become an enduring symbol of the entertainment industry, captivating audiences worldwide through its appearances in films, television shows, and various media. Its iconic status has solidified its place as a must-see landmark for visitors to Los Angeles.
Appearances in Films and Media
The Sign has played a significant role in numerous Hollywood productions, often serving as a backdrop for establishing shots or pivotal scenes. In the 1990s, it made memorable appearances in popular television shows like “Beverly Hills 90210” and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” setting the stage for the glamorous world of Hollywood. The Sign’s presence in these shows helped cement its status as a cultural icon for a new generation of viewers.
As the years progressed, the Sign’s role in media evolved from supporting to starring. In films like “Independence Day” (1996), it served as a visual cue to establish the setting of Los Angeles during an alien invasion. The Sign’s destruction became a popular trope in disaster movies, symbolizing the fall of Hollywood itself. For instance, in “San Andreas” (2015), a massive earthquake brings the Sign tumbling down, representing the devastation wrought upon the city.
The Sign has also been featured in more intimate moments on screen. In “Friends with Benefits” (2011), characters played by Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake share a romantic moment atop the Sign’s first “O,” showcasing its allure as a symbol of love and adventure. Similarly, in “The Kissing Booth” (2018), the Sign serves as a backdrop for a tender scene between the main characters, emphasizing its romantic appeal.
As a Los Angeles Landmark
Beyond its role in entertainment, the Hollywood Sign has become an integral part of Los Angeles’ identity. It serves as a beacon for aspiring actors, directors, and filmmakers from around the world, embodying the dreams and aspirations associated with Hollywood. The Sign’s presence on the hillside has made it a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors eager to capture a glimpse of the iconic letters.
For many in the entertainment industry, the Sign holds a special significance. Stephen Gyllenhaal, a filmmaker who arrived in Los Angeles in 1978, describes the Sign as a “welcome signpost” he would return to after wrapping a film, symbolizing a sense of home. This sentiment is echoed by others in the industry who view the Sign as a constant reminder of their dreams and ambitions.
The Sign’s impact extends beyond those in the entertainment world. It has become a symbol of hope and inspiration for many. Bobbie Chance, an actress who arrived in Hollywood in the mid-1960s, refers to the Sign as her “lucky North Star,” spurring her to pursue her dreams and inspire others. She emphasizes that the Sign represents the intangible nature of dreams, always visible but just out of reach, encouraging people to persevere in their pursuits.
As the Hollywood Sign approaches its centennial, its cultural impact and legacy continue to grow. It remains a powerful symbol of the entertainment industry, the city of Los Angeles, and the enduring allure of Hollywood dreams.
Conclusion
The Hollywood Sign’s journey from a temporary real estate advertisement to a global icon is truly remarkable. Its transformation mirrors the evolution of Hollywood itself, becoming a symbol of dreams and aspirations for countless individuals in the entertainment industry. The sign’s enduring presence on Mount Lee serves as a constant reminder of the magic and allure of Tinseltown, capturing the imagination of both locals and visitors alike.
As we reflect on the sign’s rich history and cultural impact, it’s clear that its influence extends far beyond the hills of Los Angeles. To fully appreciate this iconic landmark, why not experience it up close? Book our Official Hollywood Sign Tour, starting at $29, which includes a 15-minute stop at the Hollywood Sign View Point for unforgettable selfies. The Hollywood Sign continues to stand tall, not just as a physical structure, but as a beacon of hope and inspiration for dreamers worldwide, reminding us of the enduring power of the silver screen and the magic of Hollywood.
