Hollywood sign turns 100 next year

A place where aging is frowned upon and face lifts are common, even the sign that represents Hollywood to the world is getting involved.

The nine-letter mark on tinsel town will turn 100 years old in 2023, and as time-defying actors and actresses see it, it looks pretty much the same as it has for decades.

But as all good actors know, a little pinch here, a little tick there can keep one looking young forever.

The Hollywood Sign Trust announced the change, saying that about 400 gallons (1,500 liters) of paint and primer will be applied to the 45-foot (14 m) high sign.

Work begins on Monday, with 10 prep and pressure crews washing the large letters, which sit in the hills above the film capital.

The sign — a must-see for any movie buff or tourist visiting Los Angeles — initially read Hollywoodland, and was created as an advertisement for an upscale real estate development.

But in 1949, as the film industry entered its golden age, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce dropped the last four letters.

The slightly out-of-place sign above La La Land has been repaired and renovated over the decades, and was even rebuilt in 1978. It was last painted in 2012.

“The sign is the pride of Los Angeles and we’re excited for fans around the world to see this transformation for the 100th anniversary,” said Jeff Zarinnum, president of the Hollywood Sign Trust.

The facelift will take about eight weeks to complete, and is due to finish on November 1…AFP