Hollywood Icon Reaches a Century: Celebrating 100 Years of the Famous Sign

The iconic Hollywood sign, a towering presence in Tinseltown and a globally recognized symbol of the film industry, celebrated its 100th birthday recently. This significant milestone was marked by illuminating a part of the sign for the first time in many years.

Initially erected in 1923 as an advertisement for a high-end real estate development named “HOLLYWOODLAND,” the sign was a beacon for luxury living, lit by thousands of bulbs. However, by the 1940s, the sign had fallen into disrepair, with the ‘H’ damaged and the locals calling for its removal. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce intervened, recognizing the sign’s symbolic value, and refurbished it, dropping the last four letters to represent the entire city, not just a real estate development.

Despite renovations, the sign suffered from the elements over the years. Notably, musician Alice Cooper spearheaded a fundraising campaign to restore the sign, with notable figures such as Gene Autry, Hugh Hefner, and Andy Williams each sponsoring a letter.

The refurbished sign stands slightly shorter at 44 feet, constructed of steel and featuring a unique, slightly off-kilter design. The Hollywood Sign Trust recently reported that nearly 400 gallons of paint and primer were used in its latest repainting, in preparation for its centennial celebration.

The lighting event on Friday night was symbolic, with only a part of the sign lit due to local residents’ objections to night-time illumination. However, Trust chairman Jeff Zarrinnam indicated there might be future occasions for lighting the sign, especially during significant events like the FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics, when Los Angeles will be in the global spotlight.