A historic residence once owned by the legendary Hollywood actress Jean Harlow has been listed for sale at a price of $16.8 million. This striking Colonial Revival mansion, built in the 1930s, sits on 1.32 acres in the prestigious Holmby Hills area of Los Angeles. Harlow, a major star of her time, lived in this estate from its completion around 1932 until her untimely death in 1937 at the young age of 26.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Jean-Harlow-estate-4-040226-4e9649f1b8be48b982fb219e986a5834.jpg)
Nestled amid a grove of original magnolia trees, the red-brick estate boasts a generous layout of four bedrooms and seven bathrooms, encapsulated within a sprawling 7,367 square feet. The interior of the home features a grand formal living room that showcases exquisite details, including boiserie panelling, crown mouldings, and a marble fireplace. The library, a cherished space from Harlow’s era, retains its original built-in arched bookcases, adding an authentic charm to the property.
The grounds also include an inviting outdoor area with a large swimming pool, complete with an original diving board and accompanying spa. The estate is equipped with a two-storey pool house featuring a balcony and French doors, allowing for serene views of the landscaped gardens. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the full-size tennis court, while tranquil koi ponds and waterfalls contribute to the estate’s lush ambience. Furthermore, a temperature-controlled wine cellar enhances the property’s allure for potential buyers.
David Kramer, the real estate agent representing the listing, expressed enthusiasm about the unique historical significance of the home. “Fans will be thrilled to see the property on the market, particularly as it remains so faithful to the time Jean Harlow spent there,” he remarked, highlighting the palpable sense of history that envelops the estate upon entering.
Among the property’s most fascinating features is a Prohibition-era bar, cleverly hidden behind a bookcase door. This bar served as a popular spot for Harlow to host gatherings with family and friends, making it a nostalgic focal point of the residence. According to Kramer, the home also contains personal markings and scratches on the walls from Harlow and her acquaintances, providing an intimate glimpse into the past.
The property is currently being sold by the three adult children of the late Herman and Marsha Jacobs, who acquired the mansion in 1979 for approximately $1.1 million. One of the Jacobs family members, Brian, explained to the Wall Street Journal how the estate underwent significant renovations upon their purchase, transforming it from an overgrown estate into a beautifully landscaped residence. The family has since added multiple enhancements, including the tennis court, koi ponds, and two greenhouses, all contributing to its current appeal.
The decision to sell the estate comes after the passing of both Herman and Marsha Jacobs, with Jason Jacobs, another family member, noting, “I don’t think it makes sense for any of us to keep it.” The family has cherished their time in the home but recognises the opportunity to pass it on to new owners.
Kramer summed up the unique combination of historical character and modern livability that the home offers. “What makes this estate so special is that it provides both a true sense of history and character while also meeting the demands of today’s buyers,” he stated.
Jean Harlow, known for her significant contributions to classic film, passed away on June 7, 1937, due to uremic poisoning, a condition commonly known as acute kidney failure. Throughout her brief yet impactful career, she starred in numerous notable films such as “Bombshell,” “Hell’s Angels,” and “Platinum Blonde,” leaving an enduring legacy in the film industry.
As the former home of one of cinema’s bright stars, the estate not only serves as a piece of real estate but also as a slice of Hollywood history, drawing interest from both fans of Harlow and potential buyers looking for a unique and storied property.