Neverland Ranch, the residence of Michael Jackson from 1988 until he moved out in 2005 after being cleared of accusations that he sexually molested a young boy, is unarguably one of the world’s most famous celebrity homes.
Jackson, who felt he missed out on childhood pleasures due to his father’s demanding guidance during his early success with the Jackson 5, transformed the 22-building, 2,500 acre estate into every kid’s dream – with a zoo, a movie theater, Ferris wheel, merry-go-round, bumper cars, a super slide and other amusement park rides.
“It’s like stepping into Oz,” he once said.
Security was tight at Neverland Ranch. The media was seldom allowed past the gates, and visitors had to sign confidentiality agreements and were not allowed to bring cameras.
After Jackson moved out, the once magical property became increasingly worn down, with overgrown tennis courts, stagnant water in the zoo, and torn canopies over rides.
Photos of Neverland Ranch in disrepair (more photos at end of post):
Facing foreclosure, investment company Colony Capital LLC, purchased Jackson’s loan in May, 2008. In November of 2008, Jackson transfered the title to Sycamore Valley Ranch Company, LLC, a joint venture between Jackson and an affiliate of Colony Capital LLC.
In April 2009, Julien’s Auctions in Beverly Hills auctioned off memorabilia from Neverland Ranch, which included the wrought iron gate from the entrance. (View photos of auction items)
The ranch, located at 5225 Figueroa Mountain Rd, Los Olivos, CA, in Santa Barbara County, once belonged to golf course entrepreneur William Bone. The surrounding area previously consisted of working ranches. Today, the area is primarily made up of vineyards.
In December of 2008, Michael Jackson leased a French Chateau style estate in Holmby Hills for $100,000 a month. (View photos here) It was from this home that the 911 call was placed the day of Michael Jackson’s death.
A little known fact is that Michael Jackson recorded 100 secret songs – in order to guarantee a legacy for his children after his death.
More Neverland Ranch pictures below.
See the first published photos INSIDE Neverland Ranch
Neverland Ranch videos