Category: Celebrity Homes

Hello, Jerry!

For nine glorious years, the ensemble cast of Seinfeld entertained audiences, with the banality of daily life expressed with humor and antics. Described as “a show about nothing” it quickly became an integral part of American culture, which persists to this day. On May 14, 1998, the last episode of the series aired, but Jerry, Elaine, Cramer, and Newman are still as relevant as ever.

Let’s take a look at some of the best places from the show, and the people who brought it all together.

Jerry Seinfeld

Jerry brought the show to life, fictionalizing his own life as a comedian in New York City. By the end of the series, he was making more than $100,000 per episode, and the payoff has continued. With reruns, and services like Netflix and Hulu paying hundreds of millions of dollars for rights to stream the show, Jerry is richer now than when the show wrapped. Estimates place his wealth around one billion dollars!

NYC Apartment

Like his on-screen counterpart, Jerry Seinfeld lives in New York City. But the real Jerry lives in the elite Beresford building, right next to Central Park on the Upper West Side. Units in the building sell for $10-20 million.

East Hamptons Residence

Jerry also owns a residence in the East Hampsons, where he and his family spend time out of the city. He bought the home from Billy Joel for $30 million in 2000. It also has a 22-car garage, which is essential for the car collector. The mansion boasts every luxury, including a coffee maker that costs $17,000! That’s a whole different brew than what you get at Monk’s.

Larry David’s Pacific Palisades, CA Residence

Larry David worked with Jerry to produce and develop the show, and has been financially blessed as well. Like Jerry, he owns several properties, but the Pacific Palisades residence is his main home. With an estimated net worth around $500 million, he can afford to live anywhere!

Julia Louis-Dreyfus’s California Residence

Julia played one of the most annoying, and beloved, women on television with her character Elaine Benes. Bad dancer, oblivious friend, selfish partner, and yet so funny! She has gone on to star in several other television shows and holds the record for most Emmys for a woman in a leading role. And she’s turned a tidy profit, with a net worth around $250 million.

She has a few residences, but calls one in the LA area home. She has always been very private about her family and home life, but we know that she’s focused on environmentally-friendly development.

People love Seinfeld as much these days as ever, as shown by the $500 million Netflix recently paid to have exclusive streaming rights! The sites from the show are still as popular, too.

Television Show Apartment

Funnily enough, the apartment used for the street views in the show for nearly a decade is just down the street from Jerry Seinfeld’s actual residence, and is a popular attraction for pedestrian tourists checking out NYC according to Seinfeld.

Tom’s Restaurant/Monk’s Cafe

Tom’s Restaurant, a real-life diner in New York City serves as the exterior of Monk’s Cafe. It’s been around, serving (mediocre) food for more than 100 years, kept alive in recent years perhaps by its reputation as a Seinfeld diner.

Soup Nazi

The episode featuring the “soup Nazi” was based at least somewhat in reality. There is in fact a man who makes superb soups in NYC, named Al Yeganeh. Like the character, he was also very particular about ordering and getting food. He closed his shop for a few years, but opened back up in 2010.

From “yada, yada, yada” to “man hands” and “Hello, Newman” the verbal and visual gifts of Seinfeld just keep on giving. To remember the legacy of the show, you can rewatch some of your favorite episodes, quote your favorite lines, or celebrate a spontaneous Festivus, for the rest of us.

Today is Mother’s Day, the day we celebrate and honor the women who birthed us, raised us, and influenced us for good. As we as look back at all the women who had a motherly influence, it’s hard to deny the role that television moms played in shaping us.

Let’s check in on some of our favorite showtime moms (and don’t forget to check in with your own moms and all the women who cared for you!)

Mandy Moore, Pasadena, CA

Mandy Moore started out as a teenage singer, and successfully transitioned to acting as she hit her 20s. But her recent breakout role has been as a mother on the hit NBC television show This Is Us. For the last six years, the show has been bringing us to tears each week as we see the progression of the Pearson family.

Mandy bought a mid-century modern home in Pasadena, California in 2017. The $2.6 million home has as much to offer outside as it does inside, with amazing views, a pool, gorgeous landscaping, and plenty of room for her two dogs to roam.

Donna Reed, Palm Springs, CA

Donna Reed is one of Hollywood’s enduring stars, in part for playing the strong, kind housewife Donna Stone on The Donna Reed Show. She played the role, slightly provocative in her independence, for nearly a decade in the 1950s and 1960s.

Donna owned several homes in the LA area during her career, including this home in Palm Springs, which she owned from 1966-1970. Neighbors in her exclusive community included Liberace, Alan Ladd, and Kirk Douglas. These days, the community has mountain trails, a children’s museum, community pools, and more. A perfect place to raise a family, even Donna Reed would agree.

Florence Henderson, Marina del Ray, CA

America’s favorite mom, Carol Brady, was played for five years by Florence Henderson, from 1969-1974. She lived in this Marina del Ray house from 2000 until her death on Thanksgiving in 2006.

The home was a great purchase for Florence and her husband, who had actually been living on  a boat in the marina! The home has 3,200 square feet, a pool, large library, and close access to the marina. The house sold in 2017 for about $2.25 million.

Lucille Ball, Beverly Hills, CA

If mothers lead by example, Lucille Ball was a mother to all women who aspire to great things. She was on of the first characters who appeared visibly pregnant on television. She even built the show plot around her actual pregnancy!

Her personal life was somewhat reflective of her on-screen persona, as she was among the first female Hollywood executives, maintained control over her career and finances, and was a strong example to other women.

Lucille owned several homes in the Los Angeles area, but this one on North Roxbury Drive is a fan favorite. Neighbors included Jimmy Stewart, Rosemary Clooney, and Jack Benny. She would even hand out Halloween candy to the neighborhood children!

Allison Janney, Studio City, CA

With a long and varied Hollywood career, Allison Janney has found success in many roles and personas, most recently as the mom hoping to make amends with her adult daughter in Mom. The show ran for nine seasons before going off the air, giving Allison another two Emmys to go with the four she earned on West Wing.

Allison bought a freshly renovated home in Studio City in 2014. It set her back about $3.25 million, but the gorgeous 5,000 square foot home has lots to offer, with five bedrooms and five bathrooms, as well as a pool, and lots of trees for privacy.

Doris Roberts, Los Angeles, CA

Perhaps an example of what not to do as a mother, and mother-in-law, Doris Roberts’ character Marie on the long-running show Everybody Loves Raymond is still a beloved figure from American television. Doris Roberts portrayed perfectly a loving mother who knows no boundaries and never holds her tongue, and in the end is always reminded that love is the most important thing.

Doris was an incredible actress with a career that spanned more than 60 years. She was a long-time resident of LA, and owned a gorgeous 1920s Spanish-style mansion in Hollywood Hills. After her death in 2016, the house was renovated and put on the market for about $2.5 million. It was a great deal for a Hollywood house, with more than 3,700 square feet, three bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and even a “speakeasy” room.

But what really makes the house unique is one of its former residents–James Dean!

These awesome women prove that anyone can set a good example for kids, so on this day when we honor women in our lives, take a few minutes to call, text, or email those who made you a better person. Happy Mother’s Day!

 

 

May the 4th be with you!

A fun riff on the famous Star Wars quote “May the Force be with you,” which was said to Luke Skywalker as he set off on a mission of a lifetime has turned into a global unofficial holiday where people around the world celebrate their love of all things Star Wars by dressing up, rewatching their favorite movies, and reveling in all things Jedi.

Let’s take a look at where some of the original cast and crew live now that they’ve hung up their blasters, light sabers, and robes.

George Lucas

Without George Lucas, Star Wars would not be the global phenomenon it is today. He was only paid about $150,000, less than a million dollars in today’s money, for the first film. Instead, he chose to earn licensing fees and other merchandise compensation. That choice, plus some good directing on the Indiana Jones movies, has made George Lucas worth more than $6 billion!

Skywalker Ranch, Marin County, CA

With all that money, he can afford to live in luxury, and he does. He owns several properties around the world, including more than 4,700 acres of prime land in Marin County, California. He uses the area as a residence and movie ranch. It has cost him at least $100 million, and he’s only developed about 15 acres, due to push back from the community.

It has an olive tree grove, bee colony, fitness center, pool, and even a gift shop. But the place isn’t open to the public, it’s designed for filmmakers, writers and other storymakers, as a place where they can perfect their craft.

Home in San Anselmo, CA

Since the 1970s, George has lived in San Anselmo, California. He originally bought one home, featured here, and has since expanded his real estate portfolio to own the entire neighborhood!

Mark Hamill’s Home in Malibu, CA

Luke Skywalker found the Force in the original Star Wars trilogy, kicking off Star Wars mania. He has largely stayed out of the limelight since his massive success as Luke, but he has done voice acting, and made a few cameos in subsequent Star Wars plots.

Mark lives with his dental hygienist wife in Malibu, which he attributes to his happy marriage. Staying away from the Hollywood scene has allowed their family to grow and thrive without the everday pressure of fame and fortune.

Their home has about 5,000 square feet, with five bedrooms and six bathrooms, and is just a short jaunt to the beach that Malibu is famous for.

Carrie Fisher’s Home in Beverly Hills, CA

At just 21, Carrie Fisher burst onto the scene as Princess Leia, a gorgeous, spirited rebel fighter. And in so doing, she became a household face for a generation. She was the daughter of Hollywood celebrities Debbie Reynolds and Eddie Fisher, and mother to actress Billie Lourd. Before Carrie passed away in 2016, the two had the opportunity to work together on The Force Awakens, and Billie was able to play her mother’s character Princess Leia in a flashback scene in a later film.

In 1994, Carrie spent $13 million on a mansion in Beverly Hills, where she stayed for the remainder of her life. Carrie’s unique personality shines in the house, unique paint, design and decor in each room, and oodles of Star Wars baubles on display. She left her home, as well as her $25 million fortune, to Billie.

Debbie Reynold’s Home in Beverly Hills, CA

In 2000, her mother, Debbie Reynolds, bought a house next door for $1 million. When Debbie passed away a day after Carrie passed, much of her $85 million estate, including her home, passed to Billie, making Billie one of the wealthiest young celebrities in Hollywood.

Billie ended up renovating her childhood home, and modifying the landscaping to connect the two homes and create a 3.5 acre estate.

Harrison Ford, Jackson Hole, WY

Harrison Ford has been in the acting industry for more than 50 years, but left the red carpet, party lifestyle behind when he moved to a ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming 35 years ago. And he and his wife Calista Flockhart seem to be happier for that choice.

Harrison is a licensed rescue pilot, and has saved people in the mountainous terrain around his ranch. His property spans 800 acres, much of which has been turned into a nature reserve. While he’s worth more than $300 million and is one of highest grossing actors of all time, he still does his own laundry and dishes. Pretty cool for a man who’s played interstellar superpilot, whip-snapping archeologist, international plot-solving CIA analyst, and even president of the USA, in his very successful career.

On this day celebrating the best movie franchise (or at least most successful), let loose and have a light saber battle, watch your favorite movies, and or whatever makes you happy. May the Force be with you.

 

 

Today, one of the funniest men in Hollywood is having a birthday, so there’s sure to be lots of laughs as his loved ones celebrate Eddie Murphy turning 61 today. Let’s look at where Eddie might be celebrating, and some important sites and friends in his life.

Mansion in Beverly Hills, California

The $200 million Eddie has to his name has gone to lots of properties, including this $20 million Beverly Hills estate where he lives with his fiancee and their child. The 18,000 square foot mansion has ten bedrooms and seventeen bathrooms! It also has a tennis court, massive swimming pool, hot tub, barbecue pit, and even an underground vault.

He paid $10 million for the place in 2003, and has done massive renovations and upgrades. It’s in an extremely private neighborhood, and has landscaping and design features to add privacy for the extremely successful actor and his family.

House in Granite Bay, California

Over the years, Eddie has had several relationships, and has ten kids. His longest relationship was with Nicole Murphy, and the two had five kids together, before divorcing in 2006.

Nicole ended up with this massive $18 million mansion in the Sacramento suburb of Granite Bay. The lakeside property has 12,600 square feet, sits on 5 acres, and has gorgeous landscaping and amazing views of the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains. After their divorce, Nicole sold the house for about $6 million. It’s now in the hands of a tech billionaire and estimated to be worth $12 million.

Private Island, Bahamas

Eddie grew up in the projects in Brooklyn, and has worked incredibly hard to be where he is today. He’s keenly aware of how far he’s come, and calls all his luxuries and amenities “gravy” in a charmed life. Charmed, indeed, as he owns his own private island in the Bahamas.

In 2007, he paid about $15 million for Rooster Cay, close to the capital of Nassau. This isn’t even the first island he owned; he used to own a smaller island nearby. Must be nice to be so rich you can even upgrade your private islands!

Richard Pryor’s Home, Northridge, CA

Eddie Murphy has long listed comedian Richard Pryor, who died in 2005, as his strongest influence. The Black comedian came to fame in the 1970s, and never shied away from tough subjects in his comedy. He has been listed as an inspiration to many comedians, especially Black comedians, who admire the work he did in paving the way for those who came after him.

Richard lived in this LA-area house during the height of his fame, and infamy. While living here, Richard accidentally set himself on fire, and was rescued by the police. It sold for $2.5 million in 2017 to former NFL player Rashard Mendenhall.

Dave Chappelle’s Home in Yellow Springs, OH

Eddie has influenced comedy over the course of his career, and several comedians list him as having a major impact on their desire to become a comedian, style, or ability to succeed. Dave Chappelle, one of the most famous comedians these days, knows he owes a lot to Eddie Murphy.

Dave has been on top of the game, and famously walked away. He found happiness in Yellow Springs, Ohio, where the locals didn’t mind his fame, and he was able to live a normal life.

The 39 acre property has a 3,000 square foot home, and quite a bit of privacy. Dave has been buying up other properties in the area, and remains very involved in local politics, even with his Netflix specials these days.

Kevin Hart’s Mansion, Calabasas, CA

Kevin Hart has cited Eddie Murphy as a role model, and Kevin has certainly done well for himself following Eddie’s example. The famous comedic actor has amassed a fortune to rival Eddie, and has an amazing 42-acre estate in the high-end LA area of Calabasas. He paid $1.4 million for the first 26 acres of land, and built a custom mansion on the property. He more recently acquired the lot next door.

The outdoor amenities are amazing, including a basketball court, massive pool and spa, and huge cabana. Indoors, there are plenty of bedrooms, a home gym, master suite with multiple closets, and more.

No matter where Eddie is today, he’s sure to be celebrating his birthday. And with ten kids, he’s sure to be surrounded by family and loved ones wishing him a happy birthday. So, we can add our voices to the chorus and wish the influential and groundbreaking comedian a happy birthday!

Ronald Reagan was born in the small Illinois town of Tampico, and rose to fame as a leading actor during the golden age of Hollywood. But fame and fortune on the silver screen was only his first act. He went on to become the 40th president of the United States, and has left a legacy long after his eight years in office.

On March 30, 1981, a delusional man attempted to kill the new president. But due to luck, quick thinking by the Secret Service, and some heroic citizens, the president was hit but not killed.

In honor of the last time a president has been attacked, let’s take a look at Ronald Reagan’s life.

Birthplace, Tampico, Illinois

Ronald Wilson Reagan was born on February 6, 1911 in an apartment above a tavern in the small town of Tampico. His parents were poor, but must have been inspirational to their two boys, because Ronald became a famous actor, governor and president, and Neil became a successful advertising executive.

The building, now called the Graham Building, is a national historical site, and you can visit, if you happen to find yourself in the tiny town of less than 1,000 people.

Childhood Home, Dixon, Illinois

When he was young, the family moved to Dixon, Illinois for better job prospects. They lived here for about three years; not a long time, but with such a transient family, it felt like a long time to the young boy. President Reagan has reflected on the home and the time spent there as some of the best of his childhood. The boys had plenty of adventures, including raising rabbits.

The home is open for visitors from April to October each year.

Rancho del Cielo, Santa Barbara, California

Nicknamed the “Western White House” while he was president, Ronald and Nancy bought the property in 1974 for about $2.6 million in today’s dollars. They bought the home as Ronald’s term as Governor of California was wrapping up, and turned it into a wonderful vacation home for the close-knit family.

They enjoyed spending time at the ranch, with its 1,500 square foot home, horse stables, and a lake. As president, he hosted foreign leaders and dignitaries, as well as signed legislation into law.

Regan developed Alzheimer’s after his second term as president, and he stopped visiting after 1995. Later, it was sold to the Young America Foundation, and they allow students and guests to visit, but it is closed to the public.

Last Home, Bel Air, California

After serving two terms as president, Ronald and Nancy retired back to California. They bought the house from friends for about $2.5 million, and it was the perfect place to retire.

On June 5, 2004, Ronald Reagan passed away after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s. The home sold in 2016 for $15 million dollars to a former Hollywood agent and Reagan supporter. The home was demolished in 2020.

Site of Attempted Assassination, Washington, D.C.

Shortly after taking office, President Reagan went to the Washington Hilton for a speaking engagement. As he was leaving, deranged John Hinckley, Jr. shot at the president. Hinckley thought he was proving his love for Jodie Foster by shooting the president.

Immediately, Press Secretary Brady was hit and severely wounded. A Secret Service agent and DC police officer were also wounded. Another agent forced Reagan down and into the waiting limo. At the same time, bystanders near Hinckley realized he was the shooter and tackled him, limiting his ability to continue shooting. Hinckley was eventually convicted of the shooting, and placed in a hospital until 2016. He now lives with his mother under supervision.

George Washington University Hospital, Washington, D.C.

In spite of security’s best efforts, Reagan was shot as a bullet ricocheted off the car and into his torso. The limo rushed him to George Washington University Hospital, where he was quickly treated for shock and the bullet wound.

If it hadn’t been for the quick thinking by the people assigned to protect the president, as well as bystanders, the president’s term, and life, would likely have been cut tragically short.

Presidential Library, Simi Valley, California

As with all recent presidents, Ronald Reagan established a presidential library to house his official papers and other presidential records, as well as honor and promote his legacy.

The library opened in 1991, and serves as a wonderful educational experience for those wishing to learn more about the 40th’s president’s life, as well as his administration.

Presidential Library Oval Office

The library has several displays highlighting the president’s term, including a full-scale reproduction of the Oval Office.

Reagan and Gorbachev Statue

The library focuses on highlights from the administration, including the monumental meeting between Reagan and Gorbachev of the Soviet Union.

Grave Site, Simi Valley, California

After a seven-day long funeral service which included laying in state in the U.S. Capitol and a funeral service at the National Cathedral, Ronald Reagan was interred at his presidential library in Simi Valley. Visitors are able to pay tribute to the groundbreaking president at the site.

These are just a few places that are important to the life and legacy of Ronald Reagan. If he had not survived the shot that fateful day, who knows if the Soviet Union would have fallen when it did and the Communist regimes of Eastern Europe changed to democratic countries. From his career in Hollywood, to his service as governor in California, to his two terms as president, he did it all, and left a powerful reputation that lasts to this day.

Ninety one years ago today, on March 22, 1931, William Shatner was born in Montreal, Canada.

In honor of the captain who boldly went where no man has gone before, let’s take a look at Shatner’s career in Hollywood, and some of the people he’s worked with along the way.

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park, Southern California

Shatner came to Hollywood in the late 1950s, and started appearing in television and movies, though without a big break for more than a decade. In 1966, he was cast as Captain James Kirk in the original Star Trek series. Filming the intergalactic series led to the crew working in some fun and funky locations, including Vasquez Rocks just north of Los Angeles.

These rocks were once a favorite place for bandits and outlaws to hide, but have in more recent years become a popular place to film television and movie scenes, including several Star Trek episodes.

Longtime Home, Los Angeles

While Shatner starred in Star Trek for three seasons, the show cancelled and Shatner struggled to find work for years. In fact, at one point he lost his house and had to live out of a trailer. It wasn’t until fans got into the show during reruns and Shatner starred in Star Trek movies that he started to earn more money.

But eventually the money did come. Now, Shatner is worth about $100 million! In 1975, he bought a 4,000 square foot home in Studio City, which has four bedrooms and four bathrooms, and a pool, too.

Property Next Door

Shatner also bought the property next door, which is a 1,600 square foot home. Shatner and his ex-wife loved to entertain and host fun parties, so perhaps it was a place for staff to live, or to let friends stay the night if they needed a place to crash.

Blue Origins Hangar, West Texas

With a reputation of “going where no one has gone before” it made sense that Shatner would want to travel to space as soon as the chance came. And in October 2021, he was able to fly as a guest on Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origins spacecraft.

While it’s reported Shatner flew for free, others have paid as much as $28 million for a seat on the rocket that launches 100 kilometers into space, giving passengers about three minutes of weightlessness in space before returning to earth. For an 11 minute trip, that’s $2.5 million per minute, or $42,000 per second!

Leonard Nimoy’s Home, Los Angeles, California

Shatner wasn’t the only Star Trek actor to experience belated success. Leonard Nimoy, who played the serious and stoic Spock in the series and subsequent films, was a great actor who never forgot his Boston roots.

He owned property in Florida, Tahoe, and southern California, but towards the end of his life, he downsized to his private home in Los Angeles. The actor, worth $45 million when he passed away in 2015, maintained an active role in the Star Trek world, like Shatner, and also like Shatner, he enjoyed the belated financial reward from his hard work.

Patrick Stewart’s Park Slope Home, New York, New York

While William Shatner was the OG captain in the original Star Trek series, Patrick Stewart reinvented the role of captain of the U.S.S. Enterprise for Star Trek: The Next Generation and subsequent film and franchise roles. He was originally a famous stage actor, and had a great reputation in theater before being labeled as an “unknown British actor” when he got the role as Captain Picard.

He and his wife own several properties in England, but they love their Park Slope town house which they bought in 2012 for about $2.5 million. The converted carriage house has three bedrooms, and a 1,200 square foot patio with fire pit, a real luxury in New York. But with $70 million to his name, he can afford all the amenities.

Over the last 91 years, William Shatner’s career and success have carried him far–even to outer space! While it’s probably going to be hard to find a gift for the man who has left earth’s orbit, a thoughtful “Happy Birthday” will suffice. So, Happy Birthday!

 

March is Women’s History Month. So, thank your mom, grandma, and all the other women in your life who have made you who you are. There are women all around us who have blazed new trails, in science, politics, and more. But who is more of a trailblazer than a rock star?

So, in honor of women’s history month, let’s take a look at some women who have been inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Aretha Franklin

The Queen of Soul was the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, in 1987. While it was long overdue, it was a well-deserved honor to the extremely talented artist. More than 100 of her singles reached Billboard 100 lists, she is one of the best-selling artists of all time, and certainly one of the most influential.

Her family moved to Detroit when she was a child, where here father was a Baptist minister. Her career took off at the time that Motown was all the rage.

She remained in Detroit for the rest of her life, owning several homes in and around the city. This Bloomfield Hills home  was one of her most beloved, and includes many personal touches including rose-etched glass and rose embroidered carpeting. The 4,100 square foot home has been on and off the market for $800,000-$1.2 million since her death in 2018, but hasn’t secured a buyer, in spite of renovations and upgrades.

For now, it serves as a legacy to Lady Soul.

Whitney Houston

Aretha’s honorary niece, Whitney Houston, had a voice that could outsing almost anyone. Her life was cut short, when she passed away at 48 in 2012. “The Voice” still holds several records, including for best-selling gospel album, best-selling soundtrack, and most consecutive number one Billboard songs.

Whitney’s famous circular mansion in New Jersey was on the market for five years before it sold in 2014 for $1.5 million. The 12,500 square foot home sits on two parcels of land combined for five acres, has five bedrooms, six bathrooms, recording studio, and more. It was a bargain deal considering Whitney paid $2.7 million for it in 1987.

Whitney was inducted into the Rock and Roll Music Hall of Fame in 202, and she is still considered one of the 100 greatest artists of all time.

Madonna

Madonna is the cultural icon of an entire generation, one of the first artists to fully take advantage of television to advance her career. She set new records, and pushed more boundaries than perhaps any other female musician, and even in her 60s, she’s still redefining her career.

In March 2008, the Queen of Pop was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of fame, the first year she was eligible.

While married to Guy Ritchie, Madonna moved to London, and fell in love with the city. She has since lived there off and on, along with Lisbon, LA, and New York. The ten-bedroom Georgian structure has six floors, and is worth about $18 million. Because she’s Madonna, she also owns the pad next door-for staff!

In 2021, Madonna bought the Weeknd’s massive LA estate for $19.3 million! He sold the four-year old mansion, which has 12,500 square feet, nine bedrooms (enough for her six kids!), a gorgeous pool, and guest house.

Tina Turner

Tina Turner first rose to fame as part of Ike and Tina Turner, a husband and wife duo that captured everyone with their intense passion and singing, and personality. She is a two-time inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, first with Ike in 1991, and then for her solo body of work in 2021. She has sold more than 100 million records, and is one of the best-selling artists ever!

First performing with Ike and then on her own for 60 years, Tina is an American legacy, but the Queen of Rock and Roll hasn’t actually lived in the United States in decades.

She and her second husband lived in Switzerland in the Chateau Algonquin for many years. In early 2022, the couple bought a $76 million estate outside Zurich. They had to obtain Swiss citizenship in order to purchase the five-acre  estate. It’s unclear whether they still rent the Chateau, or if they only need one castle at a time.

These are just a few of the many amazing and talented female musicians who have influenced lives and given us amazing music, entertainment, and inspiration. This month, we can say to women everywhere: Rock on!

Legendary race car driver Mario Andretti is one of the most accomplished American drivers in the history of motor sports. He has been named United States Driver of the Year in three decades and becoming the first driver to win automobile races in five different decades! A man whose name is synonymous with speed, he’s showing no signs of slowing down off the track. He continues to work as a spokesman for his longtime sponsors such as Texaco and Firestone and serves as vice chairman for Andretti Winery in Napa Valley, California. He owns gas stations, car washes, go-kart tracks, and his own Toyota Dealership.

Mario Andretti turns 82 years old today. To celebrate, let’s take a closer look at his career and famous family.

Nazareth Speedway, Nazareth, PA

While still a teenager, Mario Andretti and his family immigrated to the United States from Italy. In 1955, they settled in Nazareth, Pennsylvania. After graduating high school in 1959, Mario and his twin brother Aldo started racing on the dirt tracks near Nazareth, unbeknownst to their parents until Aldo suffered a major injury. Their home track, the Nazareth Speedway, held Indy, IROC, and NASCAR events until 2004. Though abandoned and overgrown, it remains visible not far from Andretti’s residence.

Mario Andretti’s House, Nazareth, PA

Mario Andretti and his late wife Dee Ann broke ground on their enormous Tuscan-style mansion in Nazareth in 1995 and moved in three years later, in 1998. With nearly 20,000 square feet of space, a game room, a garden, and a swimming pool, it is no wonder he still lives there to this day. He has continually maintained a residence in Nazareth since he arrived in the United States.

Marco Andretti’s House, Nazareth, PA

Nazareth is not just Mario’s home, however. The town remains central to the whole Andretti family. Adjacent to his palatial property is another gorgeous mansion, this one owned by his grandson, Marco Andretti. Originally the home of Michael Andretti, Mario’s son, this 12,000-square-foot house was purchased by Marco for $2 million. This house has loads of amenities, including the tennis court and six-hole golf course that can be seen in the aerial photo.

Michael Andretti’s House, Fishers, IN

Michael Andretti bought his house in Fishers, Indiana in 2009 to be closer to his work at Andretti Autosport. Michael is one of himself one of the most successful drivers in American racing and Andretti Autosport has won four IndyCar Series championships and five Indianapolis 500 races under his ownership. This huge house has a pool and a three-stall attached garage.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Marco Andretti was the youngest full-time driver in Indy car history and in 2006, he became the third Andretti to place in the top 5 in his Indianapolis 500 debut. His runner-up finish (he was beaten by just .0635 seconds) was the second-closest finish in the history of the race. Mario Andretti won the race back in 1969 but no Andretti has been able to top the podium since, prompting talk among race fans of an “Andretti Curse”.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a 560-acre facility and is the largest sports venue in the world. It opened in 1909 and hosts IndyCar races and NASCAR events.

Andretti Autosport

Not far from the Indianapolis Speedway, you can find the headquarters of Andretti Autosport, the race team owned by Michael Andretti since 2003. Marco has raced for the team and Mario remains actively involved.

With his influence on American racing continuing to this day through his family and his own work, Mario Andretti is unquestionably one of the most important race car drivers ever. Now in his 80s, don’t expect Mario Andretti to slow down any time soon!

On February 18, 2001, living legend Dale Earnhardt Sr. was in the final lap of the famous Daytona 500 race, when he was involved in a three-car collision. He hit another car, and then hit the wall at about 150 miles per hour. He was pronounced dead that afternoon, and racing fans will never forget Black Sunday, or the racing hero that is Dale Earnhardt.

Let’s take a look back at Dale’s life, career, and family.

Former Residence, Mooresville, NC

Dale Earnhardt, Sr. was born into a family who loved racing. His dad was one of the best short-track racers, and when Dale was 12, he secretly used his dad’s car to compete in a race, and nearly won! His talent was readily apparent from an early age, and Dale dropped out of school to pursue his dream career.

His hard work and undeniable talent worked in his favor, and he quickly began winning races. He was so successful that he earned more than $70 million, much of it coming from endorsements and advertising deals.

He had some nice luxuries, including a helicopter and two airplanes, a yacht, and a gorgeous mansion in Moorseville, North Carolina. Before his death, he lived here with his wife Teresa and his four kids.

On his death, his properties transferred to Teresa.

Grave Site, Moorseville, NC

Dale was only 49 when he passed away on February 18. The early and untimely death shook the racing world, and it also shocked his family. The world mourned the loss of “The Man in Black” and paid tribute through gatherings and memorials at important racing places.

However, he was a family man, and private in many ways. His family decided to hold a private service and inter his body on his estate. This way, his final resting place would not become a shrine to racing or the legend, but a private and peaceful place for his family to remember Dale.

Daytona International Speedway, Daytona, FL

Since 1959, Daytona International Speedway has been home to the most prestigious NASCAR race, as well as several other types of racing events. The track is 2.5 miles, and drivers navigate the turns for about 3.5 hours during the Daytona 500.

On that fateful February day, Dale was racing with his son, Dale Jr., on the same team. Junior was in second place, and Senior was in third. However, exiting the fourth turn on the final lap, Dale Sr. clipped a car, was hit by another, and crashed into the wall. While it wasn’t immediately confirmed that he was dead, Dale Earnhardt Sr. passed away at the scene of the accident from multiple serious injuries.

Right after the crash, Dale Earnhardt Jr. came in second at the Daytona 500, a moment the new driver should have been able to enjoy, but was forever tarnished with the death of his father.

Dale Earnhardt, Inc. and the “Garage Mahal”, Mooresville, NC

Dale was an entrepreneur as well as a racer, and he founded his own racing company, called Dale Earnhardt, Inc. in Mooresville. The large glass and granite building is still headquarters for the businesses he founded, as well as home to a Dale Earnhardt museum.

The museum has a 6,000 square foot showroom that includes several of his racing cars, trophies, and other cool memorabilia about the racing legend. Even when Dale was alive it was nicknamed the Garage Mahal for its impressive size.

While the museum is closed these days, it’s a great place to put on the list for when it opens again!

Dale Earnhardt Jr’s Home, Mooresville, NC

Dale had four children, and they are all involved in racing one way or another. But his son, Dale Earnhardt Jr. certainly carries the mantle of the Earnhardt name and has moved his dad’s legacy forward.

Dale was on the track when his dad died, which has clearly stuck with him as a driver. But it hasn’t held him back. In fact, Daytona seems to hold a special place for Number 8, having won the race twice. He is one of NASCAR’s most popular racers, and still draws fans and support in his fifth year of “semi” retirement.

Jr. has amassed a fortune well north of $400 million from racing and endorsements! But he still maintains his primary residence near where he grew up, and close to family.

Called “Dirty Mo Acres” the property includes 200 acres, has a replica of the town where his dad grew up, a go kart track, and a huge working garage for his race cars.

Dale Earnhardt Plaza, Kannapolis, NC

Dale has no doubt left a major impact on racing. He was the fourth driver to die within a short time, but after his shocking, televised, death, racing was forced to address driver safety aggressively. Several changes were made that have saved many lives, and people take safety more seriously.

Additionally, his persona, and family legacy, are still remembered with fondness. Even people who aren’t diehard NASCAR fans know about The Intimidator.

He was born and lived in the heart of NASCAR: North Carolina. His hometown of Kannapolis has embraced his legacy, even naming locations such as the Dale Earnhardt Plaza after the town’s most famous hero.

On this day, let’s raise three fingers high for Dale, and think about good old Number 3, a man who will never be forgotten.

 

 

 

 

It’s Valentine’s Day, filled with roses, romance, and reflection on those we love.  In honor of the day of love and optimism, let’s take a look back on some of the celebrities who found love, got engaged, or tied the knot in 2021.

Who knows, maybe some of their happiness will rub off on the rest of us!

Tarek El Moussa and Heather Rae Young

Tarek El Moussa and Heather Rae Young got married in October in California after a whirlwind romance and eventful wedding planning. The Flip or Flop and Flipping 101 with Tarek El Moussa star and Selling Sunset realtor met through friends and were engaged in 2020.

The couple have done well with their reality star fame. Tarek is worth about $10 million and Heather about $3 million. Heather also has a lucrative Instagram business that increases her salary.

The couple bought a home in Newport Beach, California. And since the couple are reality and real estate stars, they allowed the big reveal to be filmed. They paid a little over $3 million, and invested significant time and money to renovate the home.

The happy couple moved in around the time they got married last fall, and have room for Tarek’s two kids from a previous marriage. A wedding, a home, and a happy family–what a year!

Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton

Blake and Gwen have been all over the news in 2021. They seem to be the “It Couple” of Hollywood romance. The two musical powerhouses met on the television set of The Voice and quickly fell in love.

In 2020, Blake proposed to Gwen on his Oklahoma ranch, where the couple had been spending much of their time during Covid lockdowns. Blake built a new, larger house on the property, when things became serious with Gwen, and her boys.

Ten Points Ranch is also where the couple were married on July 3, 2021. The couple were married in a chapel Blake built special for the occasion, and they celebrated with friends and family in beautiful tents set up for the occasion.

The couple spend much of their time at the ranch, with Gwen’s three growing boys. They own homes and real estate all across the US, which makes sense for a couple with a combined net worth north of $250 million. But you only have to see pictures of this couple to know–it’s love not money that makes them smile!

Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds

Boris Johnson, the unconventional Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, married his third wife, Carrie Symonds, on May 29, 2021. The couple had a baby in December, the second for the couple and the seventh for Boris.

Boris and the family live at 10 Downing Street, the official residence and office of the Prime Minister. The house is about 300 years old and has 100 rooms! The third floor has a special suite for the Prime Minister and their family, but the rest of the building is the official working space for the country’s leader.

Boris also has a townhouse in Camberwell, in London. They started renting out the $1.6 million residence for about $3,000 per month, as they find the official residence at 10 Downing Street perfect for their family.

Anna Faris and Michael Barrett

Anna Faris has been making people laugh for a long time now, and was married to good looking funny guy Chris Pratt, but the two divorced in 2018. She met cinematographer Michael Barrett around the same time, and have been an item ever since.

After four years of dating, the two married in a private ceremony in 2021, which the actress casually mentioned on her podcast after the event. The couple were committed long before they tied the knot, having bought a wonderful, eco-friendly house in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles.

The LEED-certified house has solar panels, advanced water filtration, and a built-in Tesla charger. It’s 4,200 square feet of gorgeous, modern, sleek design perfect for the private, sweet and funny actress and her new husband! The house set the couple back about $5 million, which is NBD because Anna is worth about $30 million.

Aubrey Plaza and Jeff Baena

Aubrey Plaza rose to fame alongside Anna Faris on Parks and Recreation and has since starred in both film and television shows. She married longtime partner Jeff Baena, a Hollywood director, in 2021 after dating for more than 10 years. Just like other aspects of their relationship, their wedding was private, and only announced a few months after they were married.

The couple are low-key and private, and have lived in the same LA area home for nearly a decade. The home in Los Feliz is a great place for them and their dogs to enjoy the gorgeous views of LA and perfect year-round weather of southern California. After a decade, it’s clear the couple just get each other and are perfect for each other!

These couples give us inspiration that love is always just around the corner. First love, second chances, long-time love or quick and heavy romance, it’s all out there and you never know when Cupid is going to strike! Happy Valentine’s Day!