“Who’s the towering figure overlooking Wilshire Boulevard?” a curious onlooker might ask. It’s none other than the John Wayne Statue, a tribute to the iconic “Duke” himself. The John Wayne Statue, a striking bronze depiction of Wayne atop his horse, stands as a testament to his legendary career. This isn’t just any statue; it’s a larger-than-life monument, a full 21 feet tall and weighing a hefty six tons.
The John Wayne Statue was commissioned in 1984. It was a project initiated by Great Western Savings & Loan, for whom Wayne had been a spokesperson in the 1970s. Sculptor Harry Jackson captured Wayne’s cowboy persona perfectly. The statue initially rotated on its base. However, this proved too distracting for drivers on Wilshire Boulevard, so the motor was removed. Even the statue’s appearance has changed over time. The original vibrant paint job was eventually replaced with the current darker coating.
The John Wayne Statue has had an interesting history, tied to the evolving ownership of the building it stands before. Great Western Savings & Loan sold the building to Larry Flynt’s Hustler organization in 1994. The statue, however, wasn’t part of the deal. While there have been discussions about moving the John Wayne Statue, the sheer logistics of transporting such a massive piece make it a daunting task. So, for now, the Duke remains a fixture on Wilshire Boulevard, a reminder of his indelible mark on Hollywood and American culture. There’s even a second, smaller John Wayne statue at John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana. This one, a mere 9 feet tall, stands in the Thomas F. Riley Terminal. But this imposing figure here in Beverly Hills, the John Wayne Statue, remains a popular spot for tourists. It’s a chance to connect with the legacy of a true Hollywood icon.