I had the privilege to go where no one is allowed.
I rappelled down to the base of the Hollywood Sign to ‘inspect’ the first painting job in 10 years the Hollywood Sign Trust was doing for the 100th anniversary.
And I even managed to apply some professional touches to the letter W. I finally left my mark in Hollywood!
The Hollywood Sign has no official birthdate, but it was lit officially for the first time on Dec 8, 1923.
My story was published in Folha de S.Paulo with many interviews to recount the turbulent decades of this architectural icon and to explain its many symbolisms.
The two-page article included a second piece on my experience rappeling down to the letters, a timeline of its changes throughout the years, and a guide with hikes to get the best views of the sign.
I also produced a four-minute video about this adventure.
Hollywood sign gets revamped for its centenary
Built in 1923 to promote a new real estate development, the Los Angeles icon was meant to last just 18 months
By Fernanda Ezabella
LOS ANGELES – Like a true movie star, the Hollywood sign doesn’t let anyone get too close. It’s always surrounded by security cameras and curious fans trying to get a perfect shot.
And not unlike the faces of celebrities plastered across billboards all over Los Angeles, the bulky letters are seen from many places, such as driving along the 101 freeway and strolling the Walk of Fame and numerous trails of Griffith Park.
Therefore it’s only natural that the sign should undergo a beauty revamp as it approaches its centenary, which will take place in 2023. In addition to commemorative events, there is the possibility that the sign will shine again, or rather, be illuminated as it was in 1923 when it was raised to promote a new real estate development.
“The last painting of the sign was ten years ago. There was rust forming, peeling paint, lots of dirt and soil around the structures. And we need it spotless for next year,” said Jeff Zarrinnam, president of the Hollywood Sign Trust, a nonprofit group that helps maintain and promote the city’s symbol. “We gave it a good clean and two coats of paint.” Continue on Folha de S.Paulo in Portuguese.
Fernanda Ezabella 