Imagine a house that has been the hub of laughter and entertainment for decades, a place where comedians and stars would gather for weekly luncheons and lively conversations. This is the story of the Buddy Hackett House, a landmark property in Beverly Hills that once belonged to the legendary comedian Buddy Hackett. Let’s take a journey through this iconic home and the life of the man who made it so special.
Who is Buddy Hackett?
Buddy Hackett was a Brooklyn-born comedian, actor, and nightclub performer who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Born Leonard Hacker on August 31, 1924, he began his career in show business after serving in the United States Army during World War II. Hackett’s unique style, which included his distinctive nasal voice and adult humour, made him a favourite in nightclubs, especially in Las Vegas where he performed since 1952.
Buddy Hackett Known Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Born | August 31, 1924, Brooklyn, New York |
| Died | June 30, 2003, Los Angeles, California |
| Birth Name | Leonard Hacker |
| Height | 5′ 5¾″ (1.67 m) |
| Spouse | Sherry Cohen (married June 12, 1955) |
| Children | Ivy Julie Hackett, Lisa Jean Hackett, Sandy Hackett |
| Parents | Anna Geller, Philip Hacker |
| Career | Comedian, Actor, Nightclub Performer |
| Notable Roles | “The Music Man,” “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World,” “The Love Bug” series |
| Military Service | United States Army during World War II |
Where Does Buddy Hackett Live Now?
Buddy Hackett passed away on June 30, 2003, at the age of 78, due to complications from diabetes. At the time of his death, he was living in his beach house in Malibu, California. However, his most famous residence remains the Buddy Hackett House in Beverly Hills, which he owned from 1952 until his death.
Buddy Hackett House
The Buddy Hackett House, located in Beverly Hills, is a single-story estate that spans an acre on a corner lot across from the Los Angeles Country Club. This property, built in 1952, was Hackett’s home for over five decades and is steeped in history and entertainment lore. The house is currently listed for $18 million and offers potential buyers the option to either update the existing structure or build a new mansion up to 20,000 square feet.
Features of Buddy Hackett House
Overview of House Design, Total Area, Architectural Design, and Style
The Buddy Hackett House is a U-shaped single-story home covering approximately 7,800 square feet. The property features two separate driveways and a custom elephant statue at its centre, a gift from the late hairstylist Gene Shacove. The house boasts a dramatic dining room with wood-panelled walls and mirrored ceilings, capable of seating over 32 people. This dining room was the heart of Hackett’s weekly luncheons for comedians, where guests like Don Rickles, George Burns, and Jack Carter would often attend.
Personal House Touches
Here are the top 5 personal touches and improvements Buddy Hackett made to the house:
- Custom Elephant Statue: A unique gift from Gene Shacove, this statue sits at the centre of the property.
- Dramatic Dining Room: Wood-paneled walls and mirrored ceilings make this room a standout feature.
- Weekly Luncheons: Hackett hosted regular gatherings for comedians, making the house a hub of entertainment.
- Living Room with Brick Fireplace: A cosy living area with a brick fireplace adds warmth to the home.
- Massive Lounge with Wet Bar and Billiards Room: Perfect for entertaining, this lounge area is a highlight of the house.
House Amenities
Here are some of the indoor and outdoor amenities of the Buddy Hackett House:
- Indoor Amenities:
- Living room with a brick fireplace
- Massive lounge with a wet bar and billiards room
- Dramatic dining room with wood-paneled walls and mirrored ceilings
- Outdoor Amenities:
- Swimming pool with a diving board
- Sunken tennis court with stadium seating
House Value and Specifications
Here are the detailed specifications of the Buddy Hackett House:
- Build Year: 1952
- Purchase Year: 1952 (by Buddy Hackett)
- Purchase Value: Not disclosed
- Recent Estimated Value: $18 million
- Area: Approximately 7,800 square feet
- House Style: Single-story, U-shaped
- Full Address: Across from the Los Angeles Country Club, Beverly Hills
All Buddy Hackett Houses
Buddy Hackett had several homes throughout his life, each with its own unique story.
- Beverly Hills Home: The most famous of his homes, this is the Buddy Hackett House we have been exploring.
- Fort Lee Home: Hackett also owned a home in Fort Lee, New Jersey, which was built in 1947 by former New York mobster Anastasia. Hackett purchased this home in 1958 and sold it in 1970.
- Beverly Hills Flats Home: Before moving to his longtime home, Hackett lived in another Beverly Hills estate located in the Beverly Hills Flats area. This Spanish-style compound is on Walden Drive and is known for its broad, tree-lined streets and stately residences.
Conclusion
The Buddy Hackett House in Beverly Hills is more than just a property; it’s a piece of entertainment history. With its unique design, memorable dining room, and numerous amenities, this house has been the centre of laughter and camaraderie for decades. Whether you’re a fan of Buddy Hackett or simply interested in iconic homes, this property is a must-see.