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James Dean’s Hollywood Hills Home Hits the Market for $3.9 Million

The actor, who was a live-in handyman at the house, was discovered there during a cocktail party

By Haley Chouinard
Black and white photo of a contemplative man sitting in a living room, wearing a sweater, with hands clasped together.
The house where James Dean lived when he was discovered is on the market. Photo: JamesDean.com

The house where James Dean was discovered is now on the market. The iconic movie star lived and worked at the 1927 Spanish Revival estate, which was the home of Hal B. Wallis, the former head of Warner Brothers.

Dean lived in a downstairs suite in the early ’50s, serving as a personal handyman to the Wallis family. During a party at the residence, which was something of a hub for the Hollywood elite at the time, a casting director caught a glimpse of Dean and liked his look. A month later, he had been cast in Rebel Without A Cause.

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The property has been graciously restored since then, mixing its original charm and glamour with a contemporary flair. Set on a quarter of an acre, the three-bedroom, four-bath dwelling encompasses 4,000 square feet of living space.

The house has three fireplaces, exposed beams, and picture windows that overlook the Hollywood Hills. An open chef’s kitchen, which boasts Carrara marble countertops and Viking appliances, flows into a sun-drenched dining area. The guest quarters where Dean lived include a private entrance plus a den, bathroom, and fireplace. A tranquil pool court and alfresco dining area complete the property.

The house is listed for $3.9 million with Eric Lavey of The Agency.

Modern living room with white sofas, a central coffee table, a fireplace, wooden ceiling beams, and wall art.
The living room features wood beams and a stunning fireplace. The Agency

Modern living room with white sofas, decorative pillows, glass coffee table, and large windows with garden view.
The house has been completely restored. The Agency

Cozy sitting area with two white armchairs, a round table, decorative pillows, and a window view of green trees.
A sunroom off the living room has views of the surrounding Hollywood Hills. The Agency

Modern open kitchen and dining area with large windows, marble countertop, bar stools, hardwood floors, and high ceilings.
The kitchen has Viking appliances. The Agency

Modern dining room with dark wood flooring, large table, black chairs, white walls, and windows overlooking greenery.
The dining room is filled with natural light. The Agency

Spacious modern bedroom with a king-sized bed, cozy seating area, dark wood flooring, and large windows with blue curtains.
The master suite boasts dual walk-in closets and an elegant bathroom. The Agency

Luxury bathroom with marble countertops, gold fixtures, glass shower, and wooden floor.
The stunning master bathroom features a walk-in shower. The Agency

Modern living room with black sofa, white armchair, glass coffee table, and staircase leading to another room.
The guest suite features its own den. The Agency

Backyard view of a house with a pool, hot tub, green lawn, trees, and a modern white house with a red-tiled roof.
The terraced backyard leads to the oversize pool and alfresco dining area. The Agency

Wooden gate entrance to a white stucco house with greenery and a tiled roof on a sunny day.
The private entrance to the guest suite where Dean lived. The Agency