Mid-century modern design continues to be in demand with home buyers looking to create a retro vibe reminiscent of the TV show Mad Men. But a new listing in Los Angeles isn’t just Mad Men style, it was owned by a “Madman.”
The mid-century modern home in Sherman Oaks was built in 1964 by Earl “Madman” Muntz, who lived there until the early 80s. The businessman was known for playing the persona of a crazy salesman in radio, TV, and billboard ads. The used-car king of California eventually invested his fortune in a factory and made the Muntz TV—the first black & white television set that sold for under $100. In fact, he is credited for coining the abbreviation “TV,” and even named his daughter Tee Vee Muntz.
Adam Eurich
In 1951, he went from TV’s to cars and built a Corvette-caliber sports car “Muntz Jet,” years before General Motors came out with a similar Corvette. The engineer also invented and manufactured a four-track stereo tape player for autos in the 1960s.
An LA Times article notes that in one year Muntz sold $72 million worth of cars, sold $55 million worth of TV receivers five years later, and sold $30 million worth of car stereos and tapes in 1976. He died in 1987.
Currently on the market for $1.75 million, the single-story, four-bedroom, four-bath home has a large living room, an open dining room, a kitchen with multiple skylights, and a mirrored wet bar. The open space flows out through the sliding doors and on to a sparkling pool, a spa, and a lounging area.
The 3,000-square-foot home played host to many celebrity gatherings. Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Clint Eastwood are just a few celebrities who spent time by the pool and bar. Ozzie and Harriet Nelson used to have Thanksgiving dinner at the home, according to its current owner.
