Earlier this year, the Jim Henson Company announced it would be selling its iconic studio land, which also houses Charlie Chaplin’s studio. We now know musician John Mayer and film producer Mike will be buying it.
The site was built in 1919 and is one of the oldest studios in Hollywood. It was purchased in 1999 by the Henson family.
Brian Henson, chairman of the Jim Henson Company, said at the time: “When we heard the Chaplin lot was up for sale, we had to buy it. It’s unique to the Muppets and us. The perfect home for an elegant yet quirky brand of entertainment.
When the family bought the land, Jim Henson Company CEO Lisa Henson described the space as “a lovely hodgepodge of quirky, unusual Space. Some offices have unexpected elements, like original vaults and fishbowl-like bathrooms. It’s not your typical corporate space, but it’s ideal for the Muppets.
Charlie Chaplin Studios has a rich history that reflects the evolution of Hollywood. The studio was built by Chaplin in 1917 to give Chaplin complete control over his films, from writing and directing to producing and editing.
The property included sound stages, editing suites, and even Chaplin’s residence, creating a self-contained world where he could bring his iconic characters, such as The Little Tramp, to life.
Chaplin made many of his most famous films at this studio, including child (1921), gold rush (1925), city lights (1931), and modern (1936).
During the 1940s, Chaplin’s influence waned due to political pressure and controversy, leading to his expulsion from the United States in 1952 and the subsequent sale of the studio.
Chaplin sold the property to real estate development company Webb and Knapp, which eventually leased it to film production companies including George Reeves Adventures of Superman.
Red Skelton purchased the site in 1960 and it was eventually acquired by A&M Records in 1969, which converted it into a popular recording studio for The Carpenters, Pink Floyd Artists such as and Soundgarden recorded iconic albums here.
In 2000, the property was acquired by the Jim Henson Company, which restored it to honor Chaplin’s legacy while adapting it to the needs of his production.
Source: Deadline
