December 24, 2024: The Jim Henson Company Lot, known for its historic brick entrance with Tudor-style elements, features a distinctive statue of Kermit the Frog dressed in a suit and hat, tipping his hat to visitors. This iconic property is now set to be acquired by musician John Mayer and director McG (Joseph McGinty Nichol).
John Mayer and McG Finalize $40 Million Deal for Henson Studios
John Mayer and McG have agreed to purchase the Jim Henson Company Lot for over $40 million, as reported by the Los Angeles Times. Mayer, who has maintained an office on the property, has been working on this deal for several months. His representative, Larry Solters, confirmed via email, “John Mayer and McG are under contract to purchase Henson Studios.”
Henson Family Dismisses Earlier Sale Rumors
Earlier reports suggested the Church of Scientology had purchased the lot. However, this was firmly denied by the Henson family. They announced plans to sell the property earlier in 2024, as part of a strategy to consolidate The Jim Henson Company and its Creature Shop under one roof. This move is necessary due to the space demands of the Creature Shop, which cannot be accommodated in Hollywood.
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A Historic Legacy: The Jim Henson Company Lot
This was originally established by Charlie Chaplin in year 1919, the Jim Henson Company Lot has been a center for creative production. The property spans 80,000 square feet and includes recording studios, a 10,000-square-foot sound stage, and a woodworking shop. When the Henson family purchased the lot 25 years ago, they added a 12-foot statue of Kermit the Frog dressed as Chaplin’s iconic character, The Tramp.
Brian Henson, Chairman of The Jim Henson Company, reflected on the purchase at the time, stating, “When we heard the Chaplin lot was for sale, we had to have it. It’s the perfect home for the Muppets and our particular brand of classy but eccentric entertainment.”
The Jim Henson Company to Stay as Tenants
Despite the sale, The Jim Henson Company will continue to operate on the property as tenants. This arrangement ensures that the legacies of Charlie Chaplin and Jim Henson will remain intertwined at this historic Hollywood landmark, even as ownership transitions to Mayer and McG.
