Hollywood Sign Saved By…Hugh Hefner?
Sometimes it makes you wonder how something like the world renowned Hollywood trademark such as the sign in the hills could have even been in any situation where it was worried to be taken down. In reality, it was in desperate need of help, as some “developers” had been looking at the 138 acres behind it to construct rich guy mansions.
The property had been owned by the infamous Howard Hughes for decades, and was originally the sign was built in 1923 as part of a real-estate promotion, originally spelling out “Hollywoodland” (the “land” was removed in 1949). In 1978, after years of neglect, Hefner was one of a number of patrons who donated funds to restore it.
It was up against a deadline this year where it could have been sold to developers if a nonprofit land-conservation group wasn’t able to come up with $12.5 million by April 30. Hugh Hefner came in during the last week and donated the final $900K to ensure that the geeks that dream of stardom in between reading acnepril reviews would be able to keep their dreams of stardom.
