Buddy Hackett House: Comedy Legend’s Real Estate Legacy

Buddy Hackett houses were as big as his personality. This legendary comedian owned properties that ranged from a Beverly Hills mansion to a cozy New York City co-op. Let’s take a closer look at the homes of this larger-than-life funnyman.

Beverly Hills Estate

Buddy Hackett’s Beverly Hills home was truly something special. Built in 1952, this sprawling estate sat on an acre of prime land across from the Los Angeles Country Club[1]. The house was shaped like a U, with two driveways leading up to it. At its center stood a custom elephant statue, a gift from celebrity hairstylist Gene Shacove[1].

The single-story home covered about 7,800 square feet. One of its most impressive features was the dramatic dining room that could seat over 32 people. Hackett used this room to host weekly luncheons for fellow comedians[1]. The living room featured a cozy brick fireplace, perfect for those chilly California nights.

But the fun didn’t stop there. The house also had a massive lounge with a wet bar and billiards room. Outside, a swimming pool with a diving board and a sunken tennis court with stadium seating waited for guests[1].

Fort Lee Home

Before his Beverly Hills days, Hackett owned a house in Fort Lee, New Jersey. This 6,500-square-foot home on Bluff Road had quite a history. It was built in 1947 by former New York mobster Albert Anastasia. Hackett bought it in 1958 and lived there until 1970.

The Fort Lee house changed hands a few times after Hackett. In 2016, it was set to go to auction. But just hours before bidding was to start, a private buyer snatched it up[4]. The price wasn’t disclosed, but it was clear the buyer was eager to own a piece of comedy history.

This Fort Lee estate was no joke. It boasted six bedrooms, five full baths, and one half bath. The property also included a swimming pool, a spa, and even a movie theater[4]. Talk about living large!

Malibu Retreat

Hackett also had a place in Malibu, California. While details about this property are scarce, it’s not hard to imagine why a comedian would want a retreat in this stunning coastal city. With its beautiful beaches and laid-back vibe, Malibu must have been a perfect spot for Hackett to unwind between performances.

Roosevelt Island Co-op

In addition to his West Coast properties, Hackett owned a co-op in New York City. This one-bedroom, 1.5-bath apartment on Roosevelt Island was listed for $690,000 in 2015[7]. It was a far cry from his sprawling Beverly Hills estate, but it gave Hackett a foothold in the Big Apple.

The apartment was located in the Rivercross building at 531 Main Street. This building was formerly a subsidized Mitchell Lama Affordable co-op before its privatization in 2013[7]. It’s interesting to think of Hackett, a successful comedian, living in what was once affordable housing.

Property Comparison

Let’s stack up Hackett’s properties:

Notable Features

Hackett’s Beverly Hills home was full of unique touches. The custom elephant statue was just the beginning. The mirrored ceilings in the dining room must have made for some interesting dinner conversations[1].

The house was also a hub for Hollywood’s comedy elite. Hackett’s weekly luncheons were attended by stars like Don Rickles, George Burns, and Jack Carter. Comedian Phyllis Diller once said, “If you’ve been invited to one of Buddy Hackett’s lunches, you know you’ve arrived as a comedian[1].”

Renovation and Potential

By 2020, Hackett’s Beverly Hills home was ready for a facelift. Buyers had two options: update the existing structure or start from scratch. The property’s zoning allowed for a mansion of up to 20,000 square feet. Adding a second story could take advantage of views over the Los Angeles Country Club.

The Fort Lee home also underwent renovations over the years. By 2016, it had been updated to include modern amenities while still maintaining its historic charm[4].

Neighborhood and Surroundings

Hackett’s Beverly Hills estate was in a prime location. It sat on a corner lot across from the Los Angeles Country Club. This exclusive neighborhood has long been home to Hollywood’s elite.

His Fort Lee home was also in a desirable area. Bluff Road offers stunning views of the Hudson River and the New York City skyline. It’s no wonder the property was snapped up so quickly when it went up for sale.

The Roosevelt Island co-op, while more modest, offered its own unique charm. Roosevelt Island is a small, residential community in the East River between Manhattan and Queens. It’s known for its quiet atmosphere and beautiful river views.

Hackett’s Real Estate Journey

Buddy Hackett’s real estate portfolio tells a story of his rise to fame. He started with the Fort Lee home in 1958, just as his career was taking off. By the time he bought the Beverly Hills estate, he was a well-established star.

The Roosevelt Island co-op might seem like an odd choice for a successful comedian. But it shows that Hackett never forgot his roots. He was born in Brooklyn and started his career in New York’s Catskills resorts. Keeping a place in New York City was likely a way to stay connected to his beginnings.

The Man Behind the Houses

Buddy Hackett was more than just a homeowner. He was a beloved comedian and actor. Born Leonard Hacker in 1924, he started his career as a “tummler” in the Catskills, entertaining resort guests.

Hackett went on to star in movies like “The Music Man” and “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.” He was also a frequent guest on TV shows, especially “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.”

But Hackett wasn’t just about the laughs. He was a family man too. He married Sherry Cohen in 1955, and they stayed together until his death in 2003. They had three children, including Sandy Hackett, who followed in his father’s comedic footsteps.

Conclusion

Buddy Hackett’s houses were as diverse as his comedy roles. From a mobster’s mansion in New Jersey to a sprawling estate in Beverly Hills, each property reflected a different stage in Hackett’s life and career. These homes weren’t just places to live – they were stages for Hackett’s larger-than-life personality and a testament to his success in show business.

Whether he was hosting fellow comedians in Beverly Hills or relaxing in his Malibu retreat, Hackett’s homes were an extension of his vibrant personality. They tell the story of a Brooklyn boy who made it big but never forgot where he came from. In the end, Buddy Hackett’s real estate legacy is just as memorable as his comedic one.