Bel Air, along with Beverly Hills and Hancock Park, is one of the most classically posh Los Angeles locations for owning a home. Given this undisputed fact, it’s no surprise that the famous and exclusive neighborhood has drawn A-List celebrities of every era, from Judy Garland to The Beatles to Jennifer Lopez.
Entertainment legend Johnny Carson purchased this over-the-top Bel Air estate in the early- 1970s when the “Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” moved from New York City to Burbank for filming. He lived there with his third wife, Joanna, until they divorced in the mid-1980s. She retained the 9,052-square-foot manse and lived there until she passed away last year. Now, the ritzy residence is up for sale asking $39.995 million, with the proceeds all promised to charity.
Driving up to the property, not just anyone can get in. You must pass gates and a security booth, promising peace of mind and privacy for the kind of buyers interested in such a sumptuous spread. On the 1.5-acre grounds, there’s a large motor court perfect for hosting large parties and romantic, Old Hollywood-style touches. A tiered fountain, oval-shaped pool and adjacent cabana, and championship-grade tennis court and pavilion that Carson built await. An avid tennis player, Carson left his mark on the estate by ensuring this element was an ace.
Stepping inside the circa-1950 main house, telltale signs of micentury, Old Hollywood glamour appear. There are vast rooms for hosting or lounging, punctuated by large walls of glass and stately pillars to blend casual and grand vibes. Buyers may be especially taken by the palatial primary suite ornate detailing and tranquil green views. The nearby two-story guest house is another highlight for those with an eye toward multi-generational living, thought Carson used it as his private office.
If the modern appeal of an infinity pool or turf yard calls to you, this property will not be your taste. In every space and across the grounds, you can sense in the design that Hollywood history has unfolded here.
David Kramer and Andrew Buss of Compass represent the extravagant listing. The sale will be split between Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, the David Geffen Foundation, and SHARE, according to the Robb Report.