Television City’s Modern Transformation: Hollywood Icon Evolves

Television City, the iconic Los Angeles studio complex, is undergoing a major modernization. Since 1952, this landmark has been home to countless hit television shows. Purchased in 2019 by Hackman Capital Partners, the studio, formerly CBS Television City, is expanding and upgrading its facilities while CBS continues production on the lot. Located near the Original Farmers Market and The Grove, Television City holds a significant place in television history, hosting shows like “All in the Family,” “Sonny and Cher,” and “American Idol.”

In 2021, Hackman Capital announced a $1.25 billion expansion plan to meet the growing demand for studio space. The project, scheduled for completion in 2028, will add new sound stages, offices, and support facilities.

Responding to community concerns, renowned architect Norman Foster of Foster + Partners has revised the original plan. Foster, known for designs like London’s Gherkin skyscraper, addressed concerns about building height and density. A planned 15-story office tower was eliminated, reducing office space by 150,000 square feet, reflecting changes in the office market due to the rise of remote work following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite revisions, the project still adds nearly 1 million square feet. The design integrates modern facilities with Television City’s existing low-density aesthetic. The updated plan includes renovated and new spaces, providing 700,000 square feet of production support offices and 550,000 square feet leasable to entertainment companies. This on-lot space is highly desirable for companies like Netflix and Amazon.

The revitalized Television City will also feature a new commissary, expanded production base camps, and wider sidewalks for pedestrians. Ground-floor shops and restaurants along Fairfax Avenue will create a more welcoming community environment.

To address traffic, the plan reduces estimated daily car trips and relocates the mobility hub to Fairfax and 1st Street. This hub will accommodate public transit, rideshares, and employee shuttles, connecting to the future subway station at Fairfax and Wilshire Boulevard. Parking will move from surface lots to garages and underground spaces, increasing capacity to 4,930 vehicles.

While modernizing, Hackman Capital will preserve the four original 1952 stages and other historical elements designed by William Pereira. This commitment ensures Television City’s legacy as a vital entertainment production center continues.