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Property’s transformation and financial struggles
The property, bought by Willy Wonka actor Wilder in 1976 for $300,000, has seen its value soar to $12.95 million.Despite its high market value, Walker-Pearlman and his wife Elizabeth Hunter have struggled financially. The couple had planned to honor the home’s legacy but fell behind on payments, partly due to the writer’s strike, which Walker-Pearlman cited as a significant factor in their financial difficulties.
Musk’s original gesture and current response
“He could have sold it for so much more. His sensitivity to me can’t be overstated,” Walker-Pearlman told the Wall Street Journal in 2022, reflecting on Musk’s initial gesture. Musk, who had previously lived across the street, had insisted that the home be preserved in its original spirit.
Foreclosure and positive outlook
Musk’s trust has now issued a 90-day notice for the couple to vacate. Despite this, Walker-Pearlman remains positive. “There’s no tragedy here. Elon gave us a magical opportunity. I have no complaints,” he said.
Ongoing efforts and Musk’s unconventional living situation
Walker-Pearlman and Hunter are currently working to sell the property before the foreclosure is finalized. Musk, who famously announced in 2020 that he was selling most of his physical possessions to focus on his ventures on Mars and Earth, had pledged to ensure the home retained its “soul.” His personal living situation remains as unconventional as his business ventures; in 2022, Musk was reported to be residing in a modest $40,000 home in Los Angeles, equipped with a mattress with a hole in it.
Walker-Pearlman’s reflective closure
Despite the home’s impending sale, Walker-Pearlman views the situation with a sense of closure. “This is likely the closing of a very unicorn and beautiful chapter of our lives,” he remarked.
