A historic Beverly Hills estate with deep ties to the golden age of American cinema has been sold for $14.7 million. The sprawling Spanish Colonial compound, which once belonged to legendary actor John Barrymore, has been acquired by director and producer McG, known for his work on the Charlie’s Angels film franchise.
The transaction concludes a lengthy period on the market for the property, which had been listed for six years. The estate was previously owned by Donna Scott, the widow of the late filmmaker Tony Scott, who had overseen updates to the residence during their tenure.
A Century of Cinematic Heritage
Constructed in the late 1920s by architect John Byers, the estate is situated on nearly an acre of land in the prestigious Post Office neighborhood of Beverly Hills. The property is designed as a private enclave rather than a single residence, comprising a collection of structures that total 6,976 square feet. The compound includes a three-bedroom main house, two guest cottages, a one-bedroom bungalow, and a two-story guest house, providing a secluded atmosphere suited for hosting.
The interior of the main residence preserves much of its original architectural character. Notable features include exposed-beam ceilings, arched windows, and French doors. The home also contains a formal living room with a mural-painted ceiling and a wood-paneled library equipped with built-in bookcases and a fireplace. A dedicated pub room, featuring a bar and a dartboard, serves as an additional entertainment space.
Blending Historic Design with Modern Updates
While the estate maintains its traditional Spanish Colonial aesthetic, the property has undergone selective modernization. Certain guest areas have been refreshed with a contemporary design, including the use of concrete walls, which creates a stylistic contrast with the historic elements of the main house. The grounds are connected by brick and stone pathways and feature amenities such as a koi pond, various fountains, and a kidney-shaped swimming pool.
The acquisition by McG adds another layer to the property's long-standing connection to the film industry. By purchasing the estate, the director becomes the latest custodian of a site that has been linked to prominent figures in Hollywood history for nearly a century, from the era of John Barrymore to the tenure of Tony Scott.
