The HOLLYWOOD sign turns 100 years old
Today I want to talk about the most famous sign in the world, with which everyone dreams of taking a photo - “HOLLYWOOD”.
Let's delve a little deeper and learn more about its history. The iconic HOLLYWOOD sign located on a hill in Los Angeles will celebrate its 100th anniversary this summer, and a major restoration of the symbol is currently planned. The Hollywood Sign remains a perennially popular spot in Los Angeles, with everyone who visits L.A. seemingly snapping a photo. The structure was originally installed in the summer of 1923 on one of the Hollywood hills and consisted of the inscription “HOLLYWOODLAND” with 4000 light bulbs. This sign was intended to advertise new residential areas in the Los Angeles area of the same name. It was initially decided that the sign would only be installed for a year and a half and then removed. However, due to the dramatic development of the American film industry and worldwide recognition, local authorities saw the point in preserving the structure.
The next repair of the sign took place only 10 years after the end of official maintenance of the structure in 1939. It was collapsing before our eyes. As part of a major renovation, local authorities decided to remove the last word "LAND" from the name. In 1978, a large-scale campaign to restore the sign began, led by famous rock musician Alice Cooper. As part of this campaign, nine letters were restored thanks to nine sponsors, each of whom donated $27 for the work. Sponsors included not only Alice Cooper, but also famous singer and actor Andy Williams, as well as Playboy publisher and editor-in-chief Hugh Hefner .
Today, the Hollywood sign is one of the main attractions of Los Angeles and a symbol of the film industry. The sign has been landscaped and carefully maintained by LA Parks and Recreation staff.
Interesting fact: if you climb on one of the letters “HOLLYWOOD” (some people do this), you will face a fine of a thousand dollars or up to six months in jail.
Author: Anton Nayanzin
