The Haunting of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

Hollywood is known for its glitz, glamor, and stardom, but beneath the bright lights and red carpets lies a darker side. In the heart of Hollywood stands the iconic Roosevelt Hotel, a luxurious landmark that has hosted some of the biggest names in entertainment since 1927. While its grand hallways have seen countless famous faces, they’ve also reportedly played host to an entirely different kind of guest—restless spirits.

With its rich history, it’s no surprise that the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is considered one of the most haunted places in Los Angeles. From ghostly sightings to strange phenomena, visitors and staff alike have experienced unsettling encounters over the years. So, what is it that makes this hotel a magnet for the paranormal? 

Let’s dive into the eerie history and the ghost stories that continue to intrigue both skeptics and believers.

The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is steeped in Old Hollywood history. It opened its doors in 1927 and quickly became a favorite among movie stars. The hotel’s Spanish Colonial architecture and lavish décor were the backdrop for some of the industry’s most glamorous parties. It was even the venue for the very first Academy Awards in 1929, which took place in the hotel's Blossom Ballroom.

Famous figures like Clark Gable, Marilyn Monroe, and Montgomery Clift stayed at the Roosevelt, leaving their mark on the hotel’s legacy. However, it seems some may have never truly left. Several guests and staff members have reported encountering ghostly apparitions they believe to be connected to these Hollywood legends.

Marilyn Monroe, the ultimate Hollywood icon, is said to be one of the hotel’s most famous spectral residents. During her rise to stardom, Monroe lived in the hotel for two years while her career was taking off. She frequently stayed in Suite 1200, and it’s in this room where her presence has reportedly lingered the longest.

Guests who stay in or visit the suite have shared chilling stories of encountering her spirit. The most common sightings are said to occur near a full-length mirror that once adorned the room. Visitors claim to have seen the reflection of a blonde woman who bears a striking resemblance to Monroe, only to turn around and find no one there.

The mirror has since been moved to the hotel’s lobby, but the stories continue. Some say they’ve glimpsed her ghostly image even in the crowded lobby, adding to the mystery surrounding her eternal connection to the hotel.

Another famous ghost believed to haunt the Roosevelt Hotel is that of actor Montgomery Clift. Known for his roles in classic films like A Place in the Sun and From Here to Eternity, Clift resided in Room 928 for three months while filming the 1953 movie From Here to Eternity.

Clift was known to practice his trumpet in his hotel room, and to this day, guests who stay in Room 928 report hearing the eerie sound of a trumpet echoing through the walls. Others have claimed to feel a strange presence in the room, describing cold spots and an overwhelming sensation of being watched.

Some visitors have even said they’ve seen Clift’s apparition pacing the halls, seemingly rehearsing his lines as he did during his stay. Whether it’s his love for the craft or some unresolved energy, Montgomery Clift’s spirit appears to be deeply tied to the Roosevelt.

While Monroe and Clift may be the hotel’s most famous spectral residents, they aren’t the only spirits haunting the Roosevelt’s hallways. Some visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures of children playing in the corridors or hearing the sound of small footsteps running through the hotel.

One of the more chilling encounters involved a little girl in a blue dress, who has been seen by several guests. She’s often spotted in the hotel’s upper floors, where she is said to vanish around corners or disappear entirely as guests approach her. No one is quite sure who she is, but her presence has left a lasting impression on those who’ve encountered her.

Aside from individual ghost sightings, certain areas of the Roosevelt seem to be paranormal hotspots. The Blossom Ballroom, where the first Academy Awards took place, is one such location. Guests and staff have reported strange occurrences here, from flickering lights to the sensation of an invisible hand brushing against them.

The pool area, too, is said to be a hub for ghostly activity. Some claim to have seen shadowy figures around the pool at night, while others report hearing splashing sounds when the area is completely empty.

The hotel’s elevators are another source of eerie tales. People have described feeling sudden chills or hearing whispers when they step inside, only to find themselves alone. Whether these experiences can be attributed to the spirits of Hollywood’s past or simply overactive imaginations, they continue to captivate those who visit.

The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel’s long history and deep ties to Old Hollywood have likely contributed to its haunted reputation. With nearly a century of glamour, drama, and larger-than-life personalities passing through its doors, it’s no wonder that some of that energy may have lingered. The hotel’s connection to the stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age adds to the allure of its ghost stories, making it a must-visit for both history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts.

For some, the Roosevelt is simply a luxurious hotel steeped in Hollywood lore. For others, it’s a portal to a haunted past, where the spirits of Hollywood legends still roam the halls. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the stories surrounding the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel offer a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of fame, history, and the supernatural.

If these tales have piqued your curiosity, why not experience the haunted side of Hollywood for yourself? From the iconic Roosevelt Hotel to other legendary locations, a Hollywood ghost tour offers the perfect way to explore the paranormal side of Tinseltown. Ready to book your Hollywood ghost adventure? Check out our tours here and prepare for a hauntingly good time!