Michael Jackson’s Neverland sells for £22m: What the dilapidated ranch looks like 12 years later
Michael Jackson’s infamous Neverland Ranch, once listed for $100 million, was purchased by businessman Ron Burkle for just $22 million. Since Jackson’s death in 2009, the 2,800-acre California estate has remained largely empty and dilapidated. Originally bought by Jackson in 1988 for $17 million, he transformed it into a whimsical amusement park, complete with rides, a petting zoo, and elaborate gardens.
Burkle, who had previously advised Jackson, acquired the property—now called Sycamore Valley Ranch—as a “land bank opportunity” with no immediate plans for development. The ranch gained renewed attention from the documentary “Leaving Neverland,” which made allegations against Jackson.
Neverland, located at 5225 Figueroa Mountain Road in Santa Barbara County, was named after the fictional island from “Peter Pan,” reflecting Jackson’s desire to create a magical environment. The estate, originally known as Zaca Laderas Ranch, had several notable events, including Elizabeth Taylor’s wedding and an Oprah Winfrey interview with Jackson.
After Jackson’s legal troubles, he stated he would never return to the property. Since then, the ranch has fallen into disrepair, with amusement rides and animals removed by 2013. Attempts to sell the estate at high prices ultimately led to its sale at a significantly reduced price in 2020.
