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Published 13 days ago • loading... • Updated 13 days ago
Whatever Happened to Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch?
The estate’s theme-park attractions and stigma from abuse allegations made it difficult to sell before Ronald W. Burkle bought it for $22 million, reports said.
Michael Jackson purchased Zaca Laderas Ranch in 1988 and transformed it into Neverland Ranch, his private fantasy estate designed as a whimsical escape reflecting his fascination with childhood and imagination.
Originally owned by developer William Bone, the estate was named after J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan. Jackson envisioned the site as a fairy tale, providing the normal childhood he felt he never experienced.
The sprawling property featured a JumboTron, a private petting zoo, and three railroads alongside amusement rides. Jackson hosted major events there, including the 1991 wedding of Elizabeth Taylor and Larry Fortensky and the World Children Congress.
Following his 2005 acquittal, Jackson declared he would never return to Neverland, considering the estate tainted by allegations. He no longer viewed the property as his home.
After Jackson died, the ranch proved difficult to sell due to high maintenance costs and stigma. Billionaire Ronald W. Burkle purchased the estate for $22 million in 2020, though the site remains closed to the public.