Johnny Hyde Estate: Home of Marilyn’s Agent on Sale for $18.65 Million


The former home of Marilyn’s agent and lover Johnny Hyde at 718 North Palm Drive in the Holmby Hills neighbourhood of Los Angeles is on the market for $18,650,000, brokered by Jimmy Heckenburg of Rodeo Realty.

“A timeless reflection of Hollywood’s Golden Age, where prestige, glamour, and architectural excellence converge in one of the most coveted homes in the Beverly Hills Flats. This estate holds an irreplaceable place in cinematic history.

Named after Johnny Hyde, the legendary talent agent who discovered and launched Marilyn Monroe’s career, this home was more than just a residence—it was Marilyn’s sanctuary. Within these walls, she found refuge, transformation, and the path to becoming the most iconic star of all time. It was here that her journey from aspiring actress to Hollywood legend truly began, making this estate an integral part of her extraordinary legacy.

Set on an extraordinary nearly 29,000 square foot flat lot, this Paul Williams-inspired masterpiece, built in 1941, embodies grace, elegance, and enduring sophistication. With 5 flawless bedrooms of the original 6-7, 6 bathrooms, and nearly 6,000 square feet of stunning interiors, the residence allows for both grand-scale entertaining and effortless everyday living.

The backyard is truly one of a kind—an expansive, private retreat reminiscent of a European estate. Mature landscaping, a perfectly situated pool, a modern pool house pavilion with a bathroom and storage, and a large, heated and covered patio for al fresco dining create an unparalleled setting. There is ample room for a pickleball court, accessory dwelling unit, or other additions without compromising the integrity of the estate’s grandeur.”

The property hasn’t changed hands since 1968, when it was sold for $225,000, as Mansion Global reports.

Marilyn was 22 years old when she met Hyde, then 53, in late 1948. He left his third wife and two young children for her, causing a scandal among Hollywood’s elite.

During their two-year relationship, Hyde helped Marilyn to secure breakout roles in The Asphalt Jungle and All About Eve, and a seven-year contract with Twentieth Century-Fox.

In May 1950, Marilyn posed for photographer Earl Leaf at the house. She often spent time there with Hyde, while also renting a suite at the Beverly-Carlton Hotel (now the Avalon) as her main residence.

She was photographed in the garden with her pet chihuahua, Josefa, a gift from another powerful ally, Twentieth Century-Fox mogul Joe Schenck.

Marilyn also posed for Leaf inside the property.

Sadly, Johnny Hyde died aged 55 in December 1950 after suffering a massive heart attack. He would not live to see Marilyn achieve the success they had planned together.

In 1954, she rented a smaller house at 508 North Palm Drive with her second husband, Joe DiMaggio, for several months. Their split was announced by a tearful Marilyn to reporters outside.