The 81-year-old David Geffen, the music mogul, sold his iconic home for $85 million to Los Angeles Dodgers owner in 2017, which burned to the ground in the Palisades Fire.
The Palisades fire destroyed many coastal residences, including the old Malibu mansion of music magnate David Geffen.
He was granted permission to build the house in 1983 with the understanding that he would construct a public walkway to the beach.
However, he did not, and in 2002 he filed a lawsuit to completely bar public access.
After a three-year court struggle, he agreed to construct a public pathway in 2005, which became known as the “most famous Malibu beach battle.”
In the end, he sold the house in 2017 for a record amount for Malibu real estate at the time.
Who is David Geffen?
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
David Geffen is a well-known American philanthropist, business mogul, and entrepreneur who has left a lasting mark on the entertainment industry.
He founded Geffen Records, where he played a pivotal role in launching the careers of iconic bands like Aerosmith, Nirvana, and Guns N’ Roses.
His impact didn’t stop there—Geffen also co-founded DreamWorks SKG with Steven Spielberg and Jeffrey Katzenberg, solidifying his place as a major player in Hollywood.
Geffen’s influence extends far beyond just business, as he continues to shape the entertainment world with his entrepreneurial spirit and vision.
Before establishing Geffen Records in 1980, Geffen began his career in the music business as a talent agent at William Morris Agency.
Geffen has contributed hundreds of millions of dollars to a range of causes, such as education and medical research.
David Geffen’s Malibu Mansion and Palisades Fire
David Geffen’s Malibu mansion, designed by renowned architect Richard Meier, quickly became one of the most iconic homes in the area.
Known for his modernist and minimalist style, Meier created a property that perfectly blended with its stunning surroundings.
The estate was completed in the 1990s, specifically in 1995, with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
People celebrated this luxurious residence for its sleek, contemporary design, featuring an open floor plan and clean lines that let the beauty of Malibu’s coastline take center stage.
It became one of the most sought-after properties, admired for both its elegance and the way it harmonized with nature.
The mansion, which was more than 10,000 square feet in size, featured a formal dining room, a large living area, several bedrooms, and a modern kitchen—everything you would expect from a high-end residence.
For fun and leisure, there was even a private movie theater and a wine cellar.The property sat nearly on 3 acres.
Beginning earlier this week, the Palisades fire has devastated the Malibu region, devouring almost 3,000 acres and destroying many homes, including the one where Geffen formerly lived.
Strong winds—up to 70 mph—hampered firefighting efforts and grounded aircraft, contributing to the fire’s quick growth.
This incident emphasizes how even the most opulent properties are becoming more susceptible to natural disasters, underscoring the pressing need for comprehensive fire prevention and mitigation techniques in areas that are prone to fires.
