Jim Henson Company's La Brea Studio: No Sale to Church of Scientology
In a twist of events that had many buzzing, the estate of legendary puppeteer Jim Henson confirmed on Saturday that the studio lot on La Brea Avenue will not be sold to the Church of Scientology. This announcement comes amid swirling rumors that had ignited the imagination of fans and media alike. The Henson family made it clear: “In regards to recent rumors about the sale of the La Brea studio lot, the Henson family is not in any business dealings with the Church of Scientology, and that organization is not in consideration as a potential buyer of the property.”
A Legacy Continues
It's worth noting that the Henson family still intends to relocate The Jim Henson Company to a new site where it can share space with Jim Henson's Creature Shop. However, they stressed that there are currently no negotiations in place with any buyers. It’s a pivotal moment for the company that has enchanted generations with its imaginative storytelling and unique characters.
But where did these rumors come from? The chatter started with film critic Jeff Sneider, who referenced a previous report from The Wrap about a potential sale dating back to June. Sneider had confidently stated, “Well, I'm told that the sale process is wrapping up now, and the word on La Brea Ave. is that the Church of Scientology is the lucky buyer.” His statements certainly stirred up excitement and speculation about what this change could mean for the iconic lot.
A Historical Treasure
The La Brea studio lot isn’t just a building; it’s a significant piece of Hollywood history. Originally completed in 1919, it was purchased by the Henson family in 1999 and has served as the operational base for The Jim Henson Company ever since. The 80,000 square foot facility once housed the iconic Charlie Chaplin Studios, where some of Chaplin’s most cherished films were made, including "The Kid," "The Gold Rush," "Modern Times," and "The Great Dictator." The weight of its history is palpable, making it a unique and vibrant location for creative work.
Back in the day, the lot had even more to offer. Chaplin owned not only the studio but also a backlot he sold to Safeway in 1942, along with homes and a tennis court. In 1952, he sold the lot to a real estate firm, Webb and Knapp. Fast forward to 1960, and comedian Red Skelton took ownership before selling it to CBS just two years later. The iconic space was bought in 1966 by Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss, who transformed it into the home of A&M Records. The lot's cultural significance was recognized in 1969 when it was designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument.
The Muppets Find Their Home
When the La Brea lot hit the market again in 1999, it was a no-brainer for the Henson family. Brian Henson, chairman of The Jim Henson Company, couldn’t contain his enthusiasm, stating, “When we heard the Chaplin lot was for sale, we had to have it. It's the perfect home for the Muppets and our particular brand of classy but eccentric entertainment.”
Lisa Henson, the company's CEO, echoed that sentiment, calling it a “lovable hodge-podge of quirky, unusual spaces.” She mentioned how the offices were full of surprises, featuring original vaults and fish-tank-like bathrooms. It’s clear this space wasn’t your run-of-the-mill corporate office—it was tailor-made for the imaginative world of the Muppets.
However, it’s essential to remember that this acquisition came during a tumultuous period for the Henson family. Just a few months later, in 1999, they sold the Muppets to the German company EM.TV Merchandising for a staggering $680 million. In a twist of fate, the characters would eventually make their way to the Walt Disney Company in 2003, a deal that CEO Michael Eisner had been pursuing since before Jim Henson's untimely passing in 1990.
The Iconic Front Gate
One of the most delightful aspects of the La Brea studio is its famous front gate, which boasts a 12-foot Kermit the Frog clad as the Tramp, a character from Charlie Chaplin's repertoire, complete with a top hat and cane. It’s a fitting tribute to the lot's rich cinematic heritage while seamlessly blending it with the whimsy of Henson's creations.
Missed Opportunities
Earlier this year, there was buzz about potential new beginnings for the studio lot. The Henson family entered negotiations with McG, a well-known director and producer, who had visions of setting up his Wonderland Sound and Vision production company on the premises. Unfortunately, that deal never came to fruition, leaving fans to wonder about the future of this iconic space.
Conclusion
So, what’s next for The Jim Henson Company? While the rumors of a sale to the Church of Scientology have been squashed, the family’s commitment to preserving Henson’s legacy remains strong. The studio lot on La Brea Avenue has been a hub of creativity and imagination for decades, and while they are exploring new locations, the essence of Henson’s magic will undoubtedly continue to thrive.
As fans, we can only wait and see what unfolds for this cherished institution. Whether it’s a new chapter in a different location or an innovative project still in the works, one thing’s for sure: the spirit of Jim Henson and his extraordinary creations will live on, enchanting audiences for generations to come.
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