Venturing into the Abandoned Hollywood Hills Mansion of Film Mogul John Powers Middleton
Deep in the glamorous Hollywood Hills, tucked away behind twisting streets and towering palm trees, sits an abandoned mega-mansion trapped in the past. Previously the opulent residence of legendary movie producer John Powers Middleton, this vast compound was sold for $4.75 Abandoned million Mansion in 2012 but ended up being totally abandoned only three years later—with everything still in place.
Credit goes to silent_hills_explorations
From riotous celebrity soirees to shootouts between cops, this mansion has experienced it all. Though it has been on the market multiple times—first at $5.5 million, now at $7 million—the building still sits unsold, gradually deteriorating while squatters take over.We visit this spooky, abandoned mansion today in search of its astounding history—from its glamorous days to what it is today in shambles.
The Rise and Fall of a Hollywood Mega Mansion
Who Is John Powers Middleton?
John Powers Middleton is no typical Hollywood elite. Born into wealth as the son of John S. Middleton (owner of the Philadelphia Phillies), he built his own fortune as the producer of movies and television shows. Among his most significant productions are:
- The Lego Movie (2014) – An international box office success
- Bates Motel (2013-2017) – the popular prequel television series
- Horrible Bosses (2011) – Starring Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman
- Conjuring Universe – Producing Multiple Horror Blockbusters
A Playground for the Rich & Famous
At its peak, this mansion was the center of nightlife in Hollywood. It saw some of its biggest celebrities party there, such as:
- Justin Bieber
- The Kardashian clan
- Leonardo DiCaprio
- Christian Bale
- Several other high-profile celebrities
The house had:
- A breathtaking infinity pool with views of Los Angeles
- A state-of-the-art home theater
- High-end designer furniture, together with artworks
- A sprawling master bedroom with sweeping views
The House That Wouldn’t Sell
Although it had its prime location and lavish amenities, the mansion did not sell. Its price changed over the years, rising eventually to $7 million, but no one came forward to purchase it.
Why Didn’t It Sell?
There were several reasons why the mansion failed to be sold:
- Overpricing? – Experts believe the property was overpriced for its size
- Bad Press – As squatters settled in, the house acquired a bad reputation
- Hidden Costs – Millions required in repairs after years of neglect
Squatters, Shootouts & SWAT Standoffs
As no one inhabited the mansion, it became a refuge for intruders. Homeless people, drug abusers, and even armed burglars started breaking in.
The Notorious SWAT Standoff
In perhaps the most startling occurrence, a squatter armed with a shotgun had shot someone nearby. Police and SWAT units circled the house, resulting in a harrowing standoff.
- Gunfire occurred between the suspect and officers
- Neighbors recall hearing booms (possible flashbangs)
- The suspect was later apprehended
Inside the Abandoned Mansion Today
Even in its decay, this mansion still showcases eerie hints of what it once was.
The Grand Entrance
- A spiral staircase now shrouded in dust and vandalism
- Shattered chandeliers on the ground
- Forgotten designer furniture left to decay
The Infinity Pool
- Once beautiful, now teeming with green, slimy water
- Trash & broken glass on the deck
Other Notable Spaces:
- Home Theater: Plush seats still in place, but caked in dirt
- Master Bedroom: An enormous walk-in closet, private balcony
- Left Behind Items: Photographs, artwork, luxury appliances
Will the Mansion Ever Sell?
To date in 2024, the property is still listed for sale at $7 million but its destiny is unclear.
Possible Outcomes:
- A developer purchases & tears it down
- A courageous investor revives it [[internal link: “Restoring Abandoned Mansions” article]]
- It keeps deteriorating into ruin
Final Musings: An Advisory Tale of Prosperity & Abandon
This abandoned mansion is a metaphor for how fast luxury can degenerate. From riotous partying to deadly crime, its decline warns about neglect and the transience of riches.
Would you be brave enough to venture in? Or is this mansion forever to be a specter of Hollywood’s history? [[internal link: “Most Haunted Hollywood Homes”What should be done with this abandoned mega-mansion? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Want More Abandoned Explorations? Check out our other mansion explorations [[internal link: “Abandoned Places” category page]]—long-forgotten celebrity homes, haunted estates with sinister pasts, and everything in between!