Gene Wilder House is more than just a place—it’s a piece of Hollywood magic tucked away in the lush hills of Bel Air, Los Angeles. When people hear about the Gene Wilder House, they don’t just think of four walls and a roof. Instead, they picture the quirky charm of Willy Wonka, the laughter from classic comedies, and the warm memories of family gatherings. And now, with the house back on the market for a whopping $12,950,000, everyone’s talking about its story, its value, and what makes it so special.
Let’s take a deep dive into the life of Gene Wilder, the history of his famous home, and why the Gene Wilder House is still one of the most talked-about celebrity homes in Los Angeles.
Who is Gene Wilder?
Gene Wilder, born Jerome Silberman on June 11, 1933, was a legendary American actor, comedian, writer, and filmmaker. He became a household name for his unforgettable roles in movies like Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Young Frankenstein, and Blazing Saddles. But Gene wasn’t just a one-hit wonder. He worked with comedy giants like Mel Brooks and Richard Pryor, creating some of the funniest movies of the 20th century.
Wilder’s personal life was just as colorful as his career. He was married four times, with his most famous marriage being to comedian Gilda Radner. After she passed away from cancer, Gene dedicated himself to raising awareness and funds for cancer research. He had one adopted daughter and was close to his nephew, Jordan Walker-Pearlman.
But Gene wasn’t only about movies. He loved the finer things in life—cars, homes, and even yachts. At the time of his death in 2016, Gene Wilder’s net worth was estimated at $20 million. He owned several homes throughout his life, but his Bel Air house, now known as the Gene Wilder House, is the one everyone remembers. While there’s no public record of him owning private jets or islands, his taste for classic luxury was clear.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jerome Silberman (Gene Wilder) |
| Date of Birth | June 11, 1933 |
| Date of Death | August 29, 2016 |
| Age at Death | 83 |
| Birthplace | Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA |
| Occupation | Actor, Writer, Director, Producer |
| Net Worth (2016) | $20 million |
| Most Famous Roles | Willy Wonka, Dr. Frankenstein, Leo Bloom |
| Notable Cars | Classic luxury cars (exact models not widely publicized) |
| Total Homes | Multiple, including Bel Air, California |
| Spouses | Mary Mercier, Mary Joan Schutz, Gilda Radner, Karen Boyer |
| Children | 1 adopted daughter |
| Notable Relatives | Jordan Walker-Pearlman (nephew) |
| Military Service | US Army, 1956–1958 |
| Major Awards | Emmy Award, Academy Award nominations |
Where Does Gene Wilder Live Now?
Gene Wilder passed away in 2016, but his spirit lives on in his beloved Bel Air house. After his death, the house became a symbol of his legacy. It’s not just a place where he once lived—it’s where his family, friends, and even Hollywood legends gathered. Today, the house is owned by his nephew, Jordan Walker-Pearlman, and his wife, Elizabeth Hunter, though it’s now up for sale again due to financial struggles.
Gene Wilder House
The Gene Wilder House isn’t just another mansion in Los Angeles. It’s a home with a heart, a story, and a soul that’s been carefully protected by everyone who’s owned it since Gene. Built in 1951, this house has seen decades of Hollywood history, laughter, and love. It’s a place where memories were made, and where Gene’s unique spirit still lingers.
1. Where Is Gene Wilder House?
Gene Wilder House sits at 10930 Chalon Road, in the heart of Bel Air, Los Angeles. This neighborhood is famous for its rolling hills, privacy, and stunning views. The house is perched on a 0.78-acre lot, overlooking the green fairways of the Bel-Air Country Club golf course. It’s surrounded by trees, gardens, and the kind of peace you can only find in the hills of LA. And while it’s close to the city’s action, it feels like a world away.
2. Features of Gene Wilder House
The Gene Wilder House is a classic example of California ranch-style design, with a twist of Hollywood flair. Designed by the legendary architect Robert Byrd, the house covers about 2,750 square feet and has four bedrooms and five bathrooms. Every corner of the house is filled with character—from the wood-beamed ceilings to the quirky circular bar that’s perfect for entertaining.
The house’s open floor plan lets sunlight pour in, making the whole place feel bright and welcoming. There’s a gourmet kitchen for cooking up feasts, and the master bedroom opens out onto the backyard, where a kidney-shaped pool waits for lazy afternoons. The guest cottage is perfect for visitors, and there are plenty of cozy nooks for reading or relaxing.
But what really sets the Gene Wilder House apart is its style. The white and brown color scheme, vintage details, and panoramic windows give it a timeless look. And everywhere you look, you’ll find little touches that remind you of Gene’s playful spirit.
3. House Amenities
Gene Wilder House comes packed with amenities that make life easy and fun. There’s a circular bar for parties, a gourmet kitchen, a guest cottage, and a sparkling kidney-shaped pool. The home has panoramic windows, wood-beamed ceilings, and lush gardens that offer plenty of space for outdoor dining and relaxing. It’s the perfect blend of comfort, style, and Hollywood history.
4. Neighborhood Area
Bel Air isn’t just any neighborhood—it’s one of the most exclusive spots in Los Angeles. The streets are lined with mansions, and the area is known for its privacy, security, and stunning views. The Gene Wilder House looks out over the Bel-Air Country Club golf course, giving it a peaceful, green backdrop. The neighborhood is quiet, safe, and filled with celebrities, business leaders, and artists. Schools in the area are top-rated, and everything from shopping to fine dining is just a short drive away.
Market Value
The Gene Wilder House has seen its value skyrocket over the years. Here’s a look at its price history:
| Year | Event | Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1951 | Build Year | – |
| 1976 | Gene Wilder Purchase | $300,000 |
| 2007 | Sold by Wilder | $2,700,000 |
| 2013 | Bought by Elon Musk | $6,750,000 |
| 2020 | Sold to Walker-Pearlman | $7,000,000 |
| 2024 | Listed for Sale | $12,950,000 |
| 2024 | Price Slashed | $9,500,000 |
The current estimated value is around $12.95 million, though the price has recently been reduced to $9.5 million to attract buyers who will preserve the home’s legacy.
Gene Wilder Real Estate Portfolio
Gene Wilder wasn’t a real estate mogul, but he did have a taste for beautiful homes. Here’s a quick look at his real estate history:
- Bel Air House (Gene Wilder House): The most famous, bought in 1976 for $300,000, sold in 2007 for $2.7 million, and now valued at nearly $13 million.
- Other Homes: Gene lived in several places over his lifetime, including homes in New York and Connecticut, but none as iconic as his Bel Air estate.
- Current Status: After Gene’s passing, the house was bought by Elon Musk, who used it for events and as a school for his employees’ children. Musk later sold it to Gene’s nephew and his wife, with the promise that the house’s “soul” would be preserved.
Conclusion
Gene Wilder House is more than just a house—it’s a living memory of one of Hollywood’s greatest stars. With its classic design, rich history, and unbeatable location, it’s no wonder the Gene Wilder House is the talk of Bel Air. Whether you’re a fan of classic movies, a lover of architecture, or just someone who dreams of living in a place with real character, this house has something special to offer. As it waits for a new owner, one thing’s for sure: the Gene Wilder House will always be a part of Hollywood’s heart.
FAQs about Gene Wilder
Who was the love of Gene Wilder’s life?
While many people remember Gene Wilder’s romance with Gilda Radner, his third wife, Wilder himself called his fourth wife, Karen Boyer, “the great love of his life.” Their marriage lasted nearly 25 years until his death, and he often described their relationship as the happiest and most fulfilling of his life. In his later years and in the documentary Remembering Gene Wilder, it’s clear that Karen was his true soulmate, bringing him peace and joy he hadn’t known before.
What song was Gene Wilder listening to when he died?
Gene Wilder passed away while listening to Ella Fitzgerald’s version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” The song was playing in the background as he lay in bed, surrounded by his wife Karen Boyer and family. It was one of his favorite songs, and his family described the moment as peaceful and beautiful.
Does Elon Musk own Gene Wilder’s house?
Elon Musk no longer owns Gene Wilder’s former Bel Air house. Musk bought the property in 2013 and sold it in 2020 to Gene Wilder’s nephew, Jordan Walker-Pearlman, and his wife. However, Musk financed the purchase with a loan, and after the couple defaulted on payments, Musk’s entity began foreclosure proceedings in 2024. The house is now back on the market, but Musk does not currently own it.
How long did Gene Wilder have Alzheimer’s before he died?
Gene Wilder lived with Alzheimer’s disease for about six years before his death in 2016. His wife, Karen Boyer, first noticed symptoms such as memory loss and changes in behavior, and his condition gradually worsened over those years.
Did Gene Wilder remarry after Gilda?
Yes, Gene Wilder remarried after Gilda Radner’s death. He married Karen Boyer in 1991, about two years after Gilda passed away. Their marriage lasted until his death in 2016, and by all accounts, it was a deeply happy and loving partnership.
What did Gene Wilder say before he died?
Gene Wilder’s final words to his wife, Karen Boyer, were “I trust you” and then “I love you.” These words were spoken as they listened together to Ella Fitzgerald singing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” making his passing especially poignant and loving.
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