Discover the Hollywood Hills Villa Once Lived in by Jane Fonda Now on Sale!
A Glimpse into a Historic Hollywood Villa
A stunning Mediterranean Revival villa nestled in the Hollywood Hills, which was once the residence of acclaimed actress Jane Fonda, has hit the market with a price tag of $1.995 million. This property, located at 2001 Holly Hill Terrace in the renowned Whitley Heights area, was previously listed earlier in 2024 for a higher price of $2.79 million.
Although Jane Fonda is often associated with this residence, it is important to note that she was a tenant rather than the owner. Fonda lived in this home during her marriages to filmmaker Roger Vadim and activist Tom Hayden, a time that marked her emergence as a significant and sometimes controversial figure in American political discourse.
Architectural Charm and Features
A Historic Property with Hollywood Ties
Covering an impressive 4,241 square feet, this multi-level home boasts five bedrooms and five bathrooms. Its design showcases the Mediterranean style that characterizes the Whitley Heights neighborhood, developed between 1918 and 1928. The villa features a formal entryway, a grand staircase, a cozy living room with a fireplace, and a primary suite that includes a private patio with stunning canyon views. The lower level offers a guest suite complete with its own kitchen and entrance, while the outdoor space is enhanced by a swimming pool, spa, and beautifully terraced gardens.
This property holds significant historical importance, not only for its architectural integrity but also for its ties to the entertainment world. It is protected by a Los Angeles Conservancy easement, ensuring the preservation of its original Mediterranean façade. Furthermore, the residence is under a Mills Act contract, which provides potential tax benefits for owners committed to maintaining the home's historic character.
Whitley Heights: A Hollywood Legacy
Context and Legacy in Whitley Heights
Whitley Heights has been a favored locale for Hollywood celebrities, with notable figures such as Rudolph Valentino, Gloria Swanson, and Judy Garland having called it home. The neighborhood was designated as a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone by the City of Los Angeles in 1992, following its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
Beyond its architectural significance, this house is intertwined with a pivotal period in Fonda’s life. During her residency, she became a prominent figure due to her outspoken opposition to the Vietnam War. Historical accounts from that time, including reports from United Press International and The Washington Post, revealed that the CIA intercepted letters sent to her from the Soviet Union in the early 1970s. However, there is no evidence to suggest that the property itself was under surveillance by the agency.
The villa was acquired in 1985 by actors Bryan Clark and Jo Deodato Clark for around $234,000. It is now being sold by their daughter, Kathleen Whyte, with representation from Edward Piechocki of Douglas Elliman. Interested buyers are advised to confirm the specific details regarding the home's historic preservation protections as the sale progresses.