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Hollywood has always been synonymous with glitz, glamour, and larger-than-life productions. Behind the scenes, however, lies a rich history that often goes unnoticed.
One such intriguing tale is the origin of Star Waggons, the iconic trailers that grace studio lots and sets, providing actors and actresses with a space for makeup, wardrobe, and more.
In this article, we delve into the captivating history of Star Waggons, uncovering the visionary behind their creation, the challenges faced, and the enduring legacy that continues to shape the entertainment industry.
The Birth of Star Waggons
In the late 1970s, the standard practice on studio sets was to rent motor homes for the cast and crew's needs. However, this approach proved to be costly, as studios had to pay drivers whenever the set was active, and the motor homes often suffered from frequent breakdowns. It was during this time that actor Lyle Waggoner, renowned for his roles in popular shows like The Carol Burnett Show, Happy Days, Love Boat, and Wonder Woman, hatched a brilliant idea.
Image Credit: Soap Hub
Waggoner noticed that the motor homes were rented from nearby residents in Burbank, and he saw an opportunity to provide a more efficient and cost-effective solution. He approached the studios with a proposition to rent his own motorhome to them. To his delight, they agreed.
Driven by his entrepreneurial spirit, Waggoner invested in a fleet of motorhomes, purchasing each one for $50,000. He offered these trailers to Hollywood production studios for weekly rates ranging from $400 to $500, enabling him to cover the monthly payments of $400 per motorhome while still turning a profit. This marked the inception of Star Waggons.
Evolution and Innovation
As Star Waggons gained traction in the industry, Waggoner recognized the need for trailers that were specifically tailored to the unique requirements of Hollywood productions. In 1986, after nine years of renting standard motorhomes, he made a pivotal decision to transition from purchasing off-the-shelf trailers to building custom-designed ones.
Image Credit: Star Waggons
The new generation of Star Waggons trailers boasted luxurious features and amenities, including full-length mirrors, dedicated makeup areas, and spacious, plush couches. These trailers became the epitome of comfort and functionality, catering to the needs of actors, actresses, and production crews alike.
Star Waggons Today
Fast forward 33 years, and Star Waggons continues to thrive, surpassing Waggoner's original ambitions. The company has expanded its offerings to include a diverse range of trailers, accommodating various production requirements and budgets. While the high-end trailers can cost over $2 million, even the more affordable options provide exceptional value and comfort.
Today, Star Waggons has become an integral part of the entertainment industry, with its trailers gracing production lots in Los Angeles, Albuquerque, Atlanta, and Vancouver. The company's commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction has solidified its position as a trusted and sought-after provider of production trailers.
The Acquisition and Expansion
In recent years, Star Waggons caught the attention of Hudson Pacific Properties, a prominent real estate investment trust and global studio platform. In a strategic move to enhance its transportation and logistics offerings, Hudson Pacific Properties acquired both Star Waggons and Zio Studio Services for a combined sum of $222 million.
This acquisition signifies a significant expansion of Hudson Pacific's production services, complementing its existing portfolio of office and studio properties. The addition of Star Waggons and Zio Studio Services allows Hudson Pacific to capture a greater share of production services revenue not only within its own facilities but also among other studios and on-location shoots.
The Legacy Lives On
As Star Waggons enters a new chapter under the ownership of Hudson Pacific Properties, the legacy of Lyle Waggoner lives on. The company remains committed to providing exceptional service, innovative solutions, and a seamless experience for the entertainment industry.
With the backing of Hudson Pacific's resources and expertise, Star Waggons is poised for continued growth and success. The company's unwavering dedication to quality, attention to detail, and customer satisfaction ensures that it will remain a prominent player in the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood.
Conclusion
The story of Star Waggons is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit and ingenuity that underpin the entertainment industry. From its humble beginnings as an alternative to standard motorhomes, Star Waggons has evolved into an industry leader, providing unparalleled comfort and functionality to Hollywood productions.
Next time you find yourself walking through a studio lot, take a moment to appreciate the trailers that line the sets. Behind their sleek exteriors lies a rich history and a legacy shaped by the vision of Lyle Waggoner. Star Waggons continues to be an integral part of the magic that unfolds on screen, ensuring that actors, actresses, and production crews have the perfect space to bring their characters to life.