Built in the late 1920s by architect John Byers, the estate occupies just under an acre in Beverly Hills’ prestigious Post Office neighbourhood. John Barrymore, one of the celebrated actors of Hollywood’s Golden Age, was once its owner, giving the property an especially notable place in the city’s cinematic history.
Once associated with legendary actor John Barrymore, the sprawling Spanish Colonial compound has now changed hands for $14.7 million, adding another filmmaker to a property already woven into the story of American cinema, states a report by the Architectural Digest. Scott had acquired and updated the estate, but despite its provenance and extensive amenities, the property remained on the market for six years before finally selling. Some Los Angeles homes accumulate history so naturally that the property itself begins to feel like a Hollywood character. This Beverly Hills estate is one of them. The buyer is director and producer McG , who famously worked with Barrymore’s granddaughter, Drew Barrymore , on the Charlie’s Angels films, adds the online report. Outside, brick and stone pathways connect the various structures, while loggias provide shaded areas for relaxing. The grounds also include a koi pond, fountains and a kidney-shaped swimming pool, reinforcing the estate’s resort-like atmosphere. The property most recently belonged to Donna Scott, widow of filmmaker Tony Scott , who was known for directing films including Top Gun. Now, its next chapter comes with another Hollywood connection. McG, who directed Drew Barrymore in both Charlie’s Angels and Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle, has become the latest custodian of a house whose history already reads like a film-industry family tree.