The Hollywood Sign, an iconic American landmark, actually started its life as "Hollywoodland" in 1923. It was a real estate advertisement for an upscale housing development. The original sign cost $21,000 to construct and was studded with 4,000 light bulbs, which would flash "Holly," "wood," and "land" in sequence. Imagine that light show!
Mount Washington, part of the San Rafael Hills, is a serene neighborhood located northeast of downtown Los Angeles. It's not to be confused with the Hollywood Sign's location, which is actually on Mount Lee, part of the Santa Monica Mountains. While Mount Washington offers a peaceful residential vibe and is known for its bohemian atmosphere, the Hollywood Sign stands as a symbol of the glitz and glam of the entertainment industry.
The Hollywood Sign has had its fair share of drama. By the late 1940s, the sign had fallen into disrepair, and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce decided to remove the "land" and restore the remaining letters. It wasn’t until 1978 that a complete restoration took place, led by none other than Hugh Hefner. Each letter was sponsored by a different celebrity: for instance, Alice Cooper sponsored an "O" in memory of Groucho Marx.
In 1932, actress Peg Entwistle tragically made headlines when she committed suicide by jumping off the "H." Her death added a somber chapter to the sign’s history, turning it into a site of both fascination and melancholy.
The sign is frequently targeted by pranksters. One of the most famous pranks occurred in 1976 when Cal State Northridge student Danny Finegood altered the sign to read "Hollyweed" to celebrate the new California law relaxing marijuana laws.
The Hollywood Sign isn’t just a static piece of history; it has appeared in countless movies, TV shows, and even video games like Grand Theft Auto V, where it is parodied as "Vinewood." Moreover, the Hollywood Sign Trust now manages the landmark, ensuring it remains in tip-top shape for future generations.
Fun fact: the sign is 45 feet tall and about 350 feet long, making it hard to miss when you’re in the area. But don’t get any ideas about hiking up to it; the area is fenced off and protected by surveillance cameras. So, your best bet is to catch a glimpse from Griffith Observatory or take one of the designated hiking trails in Griffith Park.