The Hollywood sign is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, towering over Los Angeles as a cultural icon. Millions of people visit or photograph it each year, and most take its bold lettering at face value until someone points out something odd about its design. According to statements from people involved in the sign’s care, there is a subtle inconsistency in the shape of one of the letters that many visitors never notice at first glance. Once you see this quirk, however, it’s hard to look at the sign the same way again.
The letter “W” is constructed with two “V” shapes side by side, but the gap on the left of the letter is narrower than the right. While this difference may seem insignificant, it creates a visual imbalance that catches the eye once it’s pointed out. People who stand in front of the sign for photos rarely notice this detail until someone highlights it, and after that, they cannot “unsee” the uneven spacing.
How the Sign Started
The sign was originally erected in 1923 as a massive advertisement for a real estate development called Hollywoodland. It was placed high on the hills above the neighborhood to draw attention to new housing lots below. The idea was simple: create a bold, luminous billboard that would be visible across Los Angeles and attract buyers to an up-and-coming area. The original version of the sign stood as a temporary promotional display, complete with thousands of light bulbs that illuminated its letters at night. Early photos show it lit up and vibrant, serving as a literal beacon to the surrounding region.
From “Hollywoodland” to Hollywood
By the late 1940s, the standard maintenance that kept the structure intact had stopped, and the sign began to fall into disrepair. Wood rotted, letters weakened, and the entire installation looked worse for wear. At this point, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce stepped in and took responsibility for preserving what had become a beloved regional fixture. In 1949, a major change was made: the last four letters of the sign, spelling “land,” were removed. This reshaping turned the landmark into a tribute to the motion picture industry and the neighborhood known simply as Hollywood. Since then, the sign has stood as a cultural emblem rather than a real estate advertisement.
Renovation and Preservation
The story of the Hollywood sign continued to evolve through the decades. By the 1970s, the now-famous letters were once again deteriorating badly. Some had fallen down the hillside, and parts were damaged beyond repair. Concerned citizens and local leaders mounted a campaign to rebuild the structure completely. Playboy founder Hugh Hefner helped organize a major fundraiser to cover the estimated rebuilding costs. Prominent figures and donors each pledged funds to sponsor individual letters, making the refurbishment possible. In 1978, the old structure was taken down and replaced with a more durable version built from steel, which is the one that stands today.
Unexpected Alterations and Popular Culture
Over the years, the Hollywood sign has not only been restored but also playfully altered on multiple occasions. People have transformed the letters to spell different messages in public stunts, including reshaping it to read “Hollyweed” in celebration of changes to marijuana laws. Other variations over time have included creative or humorous reinterpretations promoted either by art projects or as statements to celebrate events. These alterations, while temporary, show how the sign continues to capture the imagination of both locals and global audiences.
The Sign Today
Today, the Hollywood sign remains an enduring symbol of fame, aspiration, and the entertainment industry. It attracts visitors from around the world who come to admire its bold presence on Mount Lee. Despite its humble beginnings as a real estate strategy, it has grown into an unmistakable emblem of Los Angeles — imperfections and all.
