CBS Television City Studios in Los Angeles’ Fairfax District: History, Location & Legacy at 7800 Beverly Boulevard

Television City, the historic television studio complex in Los Angeles, continues to operate under a preservation plan agreed upon by its current owner and the Los Angeles Conservancy. Located at 7800 Beverly Boulevard in the Fairfax District, the facility opened on November 16, 1952, and was designed by architects William Pereira and Charles Luckman.

The complex, alternatively known as CBS Television City, was originally built as a dedicated electronic production facility for the Columbia Broadcasting System. Since its opening, it has hosted numerous television shows, specials, and live broadcasts, including productions not aired on CBS. It has also served as a filming location for movies such as the 1996 feature “That Thing You Do!” starring Tom Hanks and Liv Tyler.

In 2018, CBS sold Television City to the real estate investment company Hackman Capital Partners while retaining an exclusive lease to continue using the space. The sale did not interrupt operations, and CBS has maintained its presence at the site as a tenant.

Hackman Capital Partners announced plans in March 2021 for a major redevelopment and expansion of the 25-acre property, estimating the project at $1.25 billion. The plan includes constructing additional sound stages, production facilities, and office/storage space while preserving the historic elements of the original structure.

To balance development with preservation, Hackman Capital Partners reached an agreement with the Los Angeles Conservancy on a plan to protect the historic studio during upgrades. The agreement ensures that the architectural integrity of the Pereira & Luckman-designed complex is maintained as new facilities are added.