John Mayer and director McG have officially finalized the acquisition of the iconic Jim Henson Studio lot located at 1416 N. La Brea in Los Angeles, a property rich in Hollywood history. This announcement comes after Deadline first revealed their intentions to purchase the site last November. The duo has committed to keeping the studio operational as a major production and recording facility in the heart of Los Angeles, now renamed Chaplin Studios.
Mayer, a recipient of seven Grammy Awards, along with McG, noted that the fully staffed production site is immediately available for creative projects across various media, including music, film, television, and digital content. The facility, spanning 80,000 square feet, features recording studios and previously housed Charlie Chaplin’s renowned sound stage and woodworking shop.
While Disney owns The Muppets IP, it did not own the Jim Henson lot, which the Henson family controlled until now. Recently, there were rumors suggesting that the Church of Scientology was interested in purchasing the property; however, a representative from the Henson family clarified that they were not in any discussions with that organization and that their goal remains to consolidate The Jim Henson Company and the Creature Shop into a new location.
Mayer reflected on the studio’s rich past, stating, “This studio has stood at the center of Hollywood’s history for generations, and it’s a privilege to help shepherd it into its next chapter.” He emphasized the facility’s substantial musical legacy, noting its connection to iconic records and historic events like the recording of “We Are the World.”
McG echoed this sentiment, expressing a commitment to honoring the heritage of the studio while ensuring it remains a vibrant hub for creativity. Together, they aim to inspire filmmakers, musicians, and artists as they navigate the artistic possibilities that the historic lot presents.
The lot has changed hands multiple times throughout its history, originally sold by Chaplin in 1952. It has served various purposes, including housing productions like George Reeves’ Adventures of Superman and was previously the headquarters for The Jim Henson Company.
As Mayer and McG take the helm of this storied location, they are poised to contribute not only to its legacy but also to the future of the creative community in Los Angeles. Their vision for Chaplin Studios highlights a renewed dedication to fostering artistic innovation while respecting the rich history that has shaped Hollywood.