Hollywood Homes: Roxbury Drive In Beverly Hills
What makes a street more than just bricks and mortar? Sometimes, it's the echoes of laughter, the ghosts of glittering parties, and the indelible mark of legendary residents that truly define a place. Such is the case with Roxbury Drive in Beverly Hills, a sun-drenched haven that once housed Hollywood's brightest stars during its Golden Age.
Roxbury Drive isn't just an address; it's a story etched in the very fabric of Hollywood history. From the playful antics of Lucille Ball to the musical genius of the Gershwins, this street has witnessed the rise and fall of some of the entertainment industry's most iconic figures. Imagine an evening in the 1950s: the air is thick with the scent of jasmine, and the gentle hum of conversation spills from open windows. Inside those elegant homes, legends are made, scripts are rewritten, and the future of entertainment is being shaped. This was the reality of Roxbury Drive, a place where dreams were as tangible as the manicured lawns and sparkling swimming pools.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Lucille Ball |
| Birth Date | August 6, 1911 |
| Death Date | April 26, 1989 |
| Profession | Actress, Comedienne, Producer |
| Known For | I Love Lucy, The Lucy Show, Here's Lucy |
| Residence (1954-1989) | 1000 N Roxbury Dr, Beverly Hills, CA |
| Reference | Encyclopedia Britannica: Lucille Ball |
Lucille Ball, the undisputed queen of comedic timing, famously resided at 1000 N Roxbury Dr. The story goes that Ball, while house hunting with Desi Arnaz, initially considered 1001 Roxbury but fell head-over-heels for the charming white brick house across the street. She reportedly marched right up to the door and made an offer on the spot. This impulsive act secured her a piece of Hollywood history, a home she would cherish until her passing in 1989. The property, a sprawling 7,499 square foot estate with six bedrooms and eight bathrooms, became a symbol of her success and a hub for the era's elite. Today, whispers of haunted happenings within its walls only add to its mystique.
But Roxbury Drive wasn't a solo act. Just a few doors down resided Jack Benny, another comedic giant, at 1002 Roxbury. He and his wife Mary eventually relocated to Holmby Hills, reportedly driven away by the relentless stream of tourists eager for a glimpse of their famous neighbor. The Gershwin brothers, Ira and George, lent their musical genius to the neighborhood, composing timeless melodies just a stone's throw away at 1017 and 1019 Roxbury. Even the unflappable detective Columbo, played by Peter Falk, found a home on this storied street, with scenes from the later seasons of the show filmed at his residence at 1004 Roxbury.
The allure of Roxbury Drive extends beyond its star-studded past. Nestled within the coveted 90210 zip code, it offers proximity to top-tier schools like El Rodeo Elementary and Beverly Hills High. Beyond the gated estates and meticulously landscaped gardens lies a vibrant community, a testament to the enduring appeal of this legendary street. The area boasts a blend of classic Hollywood glamour and modern luxury, with world-class shopping and dining experiences just moments away. While some properties, like the home at 602 N Roxbury Dr, occasionally grace the market (most recently listed for $6.985 million), others, like Ball's former residence, remain closely held, preserving the legacy of those who once called Roxbury Drive home.
In June 2022, the Beverly Hills City Council made a controversial decision to allow the demolition of 1001 Roxbury Drive, a move that sparked debate among preservationists and history buffs. The house, once considered by Lucille Ball herself, ultimately met its demise, marking a turning point in the street's history. Yet, even amidst such changes, the spirit of Roxbury Drive persists. Its a spirit woven from the triumphs and tragedies, the laughter and tears, of those who shaped the golden age of Hollywood. And as the sun sets each evening, casting long shadows across those iconic homes, one can almost hear the echoes of their stories, whispered on the breeze.
Today, properties on Roxbury Drive command impressive sums. Recent sales, like the $37.11 million sale of 1006 N Roxbury Dr in June 2024, reflect the enduring value and prestige associated with this address. While the faces may change and the houses may be updated, the legacy of Roxbury Drive remains, a timeless reminder of Hollywood's golden era.
