History of the Theatre
The tradition began when the magnificent Asian-inspired cinema was under construction. Owner Sid Grauman accidentally stepped into a freshly paved sidewalk, which inspired him to invite film stars like Douglas Fairbanks, Mary Pickford, and Norma Talmadge to imprint their footprints on opening day in 1927. This event initiated the famous Forecourt of the Stars. Over the years, more than 200 celebrities have immortalized their footprints, handprints, and hoof prints in front of this iconic Hollywood landmark. Notable names include Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Sydney Poitier, while contemporary celebrities like Vin Diesel and Tom Hanks have also left their mark.
Naming Evolution
The theatre was managed for many years by Mann Theatres. Despite the name change to Mann’s Chinese Theatre, locals cherished the original name Grauman’s, leading to its reinstatement in 2001. However, in January 2013, TCL, a Chinese electronics company, acquired the naming rights, now calling it TCL Chinese Theatre. Despite this change, many locals, including media personalities, continue to refer to it as Grauman’s or simply The Chinese Theatre.
Watching Movies
Movies are screened throughout the day in the upstairs TCL Theatres, including an impressive IMAX screen, all conveniently accessible from inside the Hollywood & Highland Center. The opulent main theatre, which opens onto Hollywood Blvd, is typically reserved for movie premieres and special events, adding to its allure.
Tours Offered
Tours are conducted every half hour during opening hours, provided no other events are scheduled. To ensure availability, it is advisable to confirm tour times via the designated phone number below.
TCL (Grauman’s) Chinese Theatre
Address: 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 464-8111 for show times
Metro: Red Line to Hollywood and Highland
Parking: Available at Hollywood and Highland shopping and entertainment complex, $2 for 4 hours with validation, or metered street parking on surrounding streets. Be cautious of designated tour bus parking.
Tours: VIP Tours are available daily. Call 323-463-9576 for pricing and tour times or email tours@chinesetheatres.com.
Website: www.tclchinesetheatres.com
Irrespective of whether you refer to it as TCL, Grauman’s, or Mann’s, a visit to Hollywood is incomplete without experiencing the Chinese Theatre and stepping into the footprints left by the stars. It remains one of the Top Free Things to Do in LA and ranks among the Most Photographed LA Landmarks, alongside the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame extending in front of the theatre.
Nearby Attractions
In front of the theatre lies the vibrant Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Dolby Theatre is situated immediately to the east, and in 2009, Madame Tussauds wax museum opened adjacent to the Chinese Theatre on the west side. Other nearby attractions include El Capitan Theatre, Disney’s Soda Fountain and Studio Store, and the Disney Entertainment Center, home to Jimmy Kimmel’s show, located across the street.
