A Legendary Residence Finds New Ownership in a Storied Neighborhood
The Historic Transaction of a Hollywood Gem
A property affectionately known as one of Hollywood's prized possessions, once a rental for the esteemed Audrey Hepburn from the equally renowned Deborah Kerr, has officially been acquired. Situated within the prestigious Brentwood area of Los Angeles, California, this estate was initially introduced to the market by Sotheby's International Realty in June 2025 with an asking price of $10.9 million. After a period of three decades, the residence has now been successfully sold for a revised yet substantial sum of $9.4 million.
Tracing the Lineage of a Star-Studded Estate
The multimillion-dollar abode that Audrey Hepburn once leased from Deborah Kerr did not originate with the Scottish actress. Its initial ownership in the early 1950s belonged to Edwin Knopf, a distinguished director and producer, brother to the acclaimed publisher Alfred Knopf, and his wife, Mildred. Deborah Kerr subsequently purchased the property, though the exact date of her occupancy remains uncertain, it is believed she resided there during the latter half of the 1950s.
Architectural Grandeur and Modern Luxuries
Erected in 1939, this five-bedroom, six-and-a-half-bathroom mansion is securely nestled behind a private gate adjacent to Brentwood Park. Despite various contemporary renovations over the years, the sprawling 6,000-square-foot house has meticulously preserved its quintessential Georgian architectural essence. Notable interior elements include a library adorned with rich wood paneling and a cozy fireplace, a sun-drenched conservatory featuring elegant checkered flooring, a sophisticated built-in bar, and French doors that gracefully open onto a picturesque balcony. The entrance of the home welcomes visitors with a Southern-inspired lanai, offering an expansive outdoor area perfect for entertaining, complete with its own fireplace and integrated ceiling heaters.
Refined Interiors and Expansive Grounds
The upper level now includes an opulent primary suite, boasting two lavish spa-inspired bathrooms and separate walk-in closets, each with dedicated dressing rooms. The kitchen and laundry areas have undergone significant redesigns, eliminating the former butler's pantry and maid's quarters. Guest accommodations are thoughtfully appointed with en-suite bathrooms and access to a full-length balcony that spans the upper floor, providing magnificent views of the verdant lawn. Further amenities within the main residence encompass a family room on the ground floor, a private garage, and a secluded swimming pool. The estate's enchanting garden, featuring winding pathways, leads down to the street below.
A Haven for Hollywood's Elite
Deborah Kerr was renowned for her hospitality, frequently opening her home to friends. The six-time Oscar-nominated actress, celebrated for her roles in iconic films such as The King and I and From Here to Eternity, is said to have leased her dwelling to the Belgian-English actress Audrey Hepburn, one of Hollywood's most iconic figures. Hepburn and her then-husband, actor and producer Mel Ferrer, were famously captured in photographs in front of the house during her residency in the late 1950s. If only the walls of this magnificent estate could recount their tales!