Have you ever wondered what it’s like to step inside the home of a legendary entertainer? Well, get ready to take a peek into the fascinating world of Jackie Gleason and his extraordinary house. Jackie Gleason was a household name in the 1950s and 60s, known for his iconic roles in “The Honeymooners” and “The Jackie Gleason Show.” But did you know that his personal life was just as intriguing as his on-screen persona?
| Personal Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Herbert Walton Gleason Jr. (Jackie Gleason) |
| Birth Date | February 26, 1916 |
| Birth Place | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
| Death Date | June 24, 1987 |
| Death Place | Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA |
| Height | 5’9½” (1.77 m) |
| Spouses | Marilyn Gleason, Beverly McKittrick, Genevieve Halford (multiple marriages) |
| Children | Linda Miller |
| Net Worth (at death) | $10 million (~$25 million today) |
| Known For | Actor, Comedian (“The Honeymooners”), Music Albums |
| Residence (Last known) | Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Peekskill, NY (UFO house); Invari golf community, Florida |
Get ready to embark on a journey through time as we delve into the history, design, and cultural significance of this one-of-a-kind home. From its UFO-inspired house architecture to its famous guests, you’ll discover why the Jackie Gleason house remains a captivating piece of history to this day.
Jackie Gleason: The Man Behind the Legend
A Career in the Spotlight
Jackie Gleason was a true showman, captivating audiences with his larger-than-life personality and comedic timing. He rose to fame in the 1950s with his breakout role as Ralph Kramden in “The Honeymooners,” a beloved sitcom that showcased his talent for physical comedy and heartfelt storytelling. Gleason’s success continued with “The Jackie Gleason Show,” a variety program that featured musical performances, sketches, and his signature catchphrase, “And away we go!”
A Passion for the Unknown
Beyond his on-screen persona, Gleason had a deep fascination with the unknown. He was particularly interested in UFOs and the paranormal, often discussing these topics with friends and colleagues. This passion for the mysterious would later influence his personal life and the design of his iconic home.
A Reflection of Personality
Gleason’s interests and personality were reflected in every aspect of his life, including his home. He sought to create a space that embodied his love for the unconventional and the extraordinary. The Jackie Gleason house would become a testament to his unique vision and a place where he could entertain friends and indulge in his passions.
The Concept and Inspiration Behind the Jackie Gleason House
A UFO-Inspired Masterpiece
| Feature | Round House (Mothership) | Glay Manor (Florida Estate) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | 196 Furnus Dock Road, Cortlandt Manor, New York | 3425 Willowwood Road, Hills of Inverary, near Fort Lauderdale, Florida |
| Year Built | 1959 | 1971 |
| Size | ~3,950 sq. ft. | ~6,000 sq. ft. |
| Land Area | 8.4 acres | Not specified |
| Bedrooms | 5 (including guest house) | 6 |
| Bathrooms | 6 | 8 |
| Architectural Style | Mid-century modern, UFO-inspired, circular design | Lavish mansion style reflecting Gleason’s personality |
| Architect/Builder | Robert Sika (Frank Lloyd Wright disciple), built by shipbuilder | Built to Gleason’s exact specifications |
| Unique Features | Circular design, no right angles, four bars, marble spiral staircase, 40-ft tall fireplace, broadcasting studio, library on UFO/paranormal topics, 8-ft diameter round bed | Sunken bar, restaurant-style dining area, luxurious retreat |
| Famous Guests | Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Richard Nixon | Frank Sinatra, President Gerald Ford |
| Cost / Worth | Built for $650,000 (1959, ~ $6 million today), listed at $12 million (2018) | Sold for $450,000 in 1992, listed at $299,000 in 2016 |
| Historical Notes | Reflects Gleason’s personal interests in UFOs and paranormal; cultural landmark; preserved largely unchanged | Social hub and personal retreat; sold after Gleason’s death in 1987 |
The Jackie Gleason house is unlike any other celebrity home you’ve ever seen. Its design was inspired by Gleason’s fascination with UFOs and space, resulting in a truly one-of-a-kind architectural marvel. The house’s circular shapes, lack of right angles, and otherworldly features transport visitors to another dimension.
Collaboration with a Visionary Architect
To bring his vision to life, Gleason collaborated with architect Robert Cika. Together, they created a home that defied conventional design principles and embraced the unconventional. The house was initially constructed in a shipbuilder’s aeroplane hangar and then disassembled and reassembled at its final location in Cortlandt Manor, New York.
Embracing the Curve
One of the most striking features of the Jackie Gleason house is its lack of straight lines. From the spiral staircases to the curved floorboards and furniture, every element of the home embraces the curve. This design choice not only reflects Gleason’s love for UFOs but also creates a sense of fluidity and movement throughout the space.
Architectural Features: A Closer Look at the Jackie Gleason House
The Mother Ship and The Scout Ship
The Jackie Gleason house consists of two main structures: the main house, affectionately known as “The Mother Ship,” and the guest house, dubbed “The Scout Ship.” These names pay homage to Gleason’s fascination with UFOs and add to the home’s otherworldly charm.
A Spacious Layout
The Mother Ship boasts an impressive 7,450 square feet of living space, featuring five bedrooms and six bathrooms. The open layout is perfect for entertaining, with large, flowing spaces that encourage conversation and connection.
Unique Design Elements
Every corner of the Jackie Gleason house is filled with house unique design elements that showcase Gleason’s personality and Style. Curved marble staircases, four bars for entertaining, and stained glass panels add to the home’s eclectic charm. Massive wooden ship beams and round furniture further emphasise the UFO-inspired theme.
An Outdoor Oasis
The house sits on over eight acres of land in Cortlandt Manor, New York, providing ample space for outdoor activities and relaxation. The property’s natural beauty complements the home’s unconventional design, creating a harmonious blend of nature and architecture.
A Versatile Space
The Jackie Gleason house was designed to serve multiple purposes, functioning as a studio, home, and party house. Gleason used the space to create, entertain, and indulge in his passions, making it a true reflection of his multifaceted life.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Legendary Gatherings
The Jackie Gleason house was the site of many legendary gatherings, attracting celebrities and friends from all walks of life. Gleason’s larger-than-life personality and love for entertaining made the home a hub of activity and excitement.
Famous Visitors
Some of the most iconic figures of the 20th century graced the halls of the Jackie Gleason house. Marilyn Monroe, Richard Nixon, and Frank Sinatra were among the famous visitors who experienced the home’s unique charm and Gleason’s warm hospitality.
A Symbol of Eccentricity
The Jackie Gleason house stands as a symbol of Gleason’s eccentric tastes and larger-than-life personality. Its unconventional design and connection to the paranormal reflect the mid-century fascination with space and the unknown, making it a true cultural icon.
A Reflection of the Times
The Jackie Gleason house not only reflects Gleason’s personal interests but also the cultural climate of the time. The mid-century fascination with space exploration and the paranormal is evident in the home’s design, making it a fascinating snapshot of history.
The House Through the Years: Ownership and Market History
A Labour of Love
The Jackie Gleason house was initially built in 1959 for $650,000, a significant investment that showcased Gleason’s dedication to his vision. The home remained in his possession until 1976, when it was purchased by a retired orthodontist for $150,000.
A Coveted Piece of History
In recent years, the Jackie Gleason house has been listed on the market for a staggering $12 million, a testament to its enduring value and appeal. The home has attracted interest from collectors, fans, and those seeking a truly unique piece of history.
Preservation Challenges
Maintaining and preserving the Jackie Gleason house has been an ongoing challenge for its owners. The home’s unconventional design and materials require special care and attention, but the current and past owners have worked diligently to keep this piece of history intact.
Why the Jackie Gleason House Still Captivates Interest Today
Architectural Uniqueness
The Jackie Gleason house remains a captivating piece of architecture, drawing interest from design enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Its UFO-inspired design and lack of straight lines make it a true marvel, showcasing the power of creative vision and innovation.
A Connection to Pop Culture
As a home that belonged to a legendary entertainer, the Jackie Gleason house holds a special place in pop culture history. Its connection to Gleason and his iconic roles in “The Honeymooners” and “The Jackie Gleason Show” adds to its allure and keeps fans coming back for more.
A Fascination with the Unknown
The Jackie Gleason house taps into the enduring fascination with UFOs and the paranormal. As interest in these topics continues to grow, the home remains a captivating symbol of the unknown and the mysteries that lie beyond our understanding.
A Collector’s Dream
For collectors and fans of celebrity homes, the Jackie Gleason house is the ultimate prize. Its house unique design, historical significance, and connection to a beloved entertainer make it a coveted piece of history that continues to captivate interest.
Where Does Jackie Gleason’s Currently Live?
Jackie Gleason is no longer alive, as he passed away on 24 June 1987. His last residence was a lakefront home in the Inverrary golf community in Lauderhill, Florida, where he lived from 1971 until his death. This home is known as “Glea Manor” and has remained essentially unchanged since his passing, with many of his personal furnishings still intact. After his death, his wife Marilyn continued living there for some years before selling it with the condition that the home’s contents would be preserved.
