Los Angeles, California: Eyeless Head of James Dean

James Dean's head commemorates his encounter with the Griffith Observatory in Rebel Without a Cause. Supposedly commissioned by Dean shortly before his death (1955), it wasn't unveiled until 33 years later, and it has no eyeballs.

Griffith Observatory

Address:: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA
Directions:: West side of the plaza lawn area at Griffith Observatory.
Hours:: Tu-F 12 noon - 10 pm, Sa Su 10 am - 10 pm. (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:: 213-473-0800

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James Dean, Rebel Without A Cause Memorial

It's worth the trip, if not for James Dean, for the Griffith Park Observatory and the Greek Theater nearby.

[Todd Smith, 07/11/2011]

James Dean bust.

James Dean, Rebel Without A Cause Memorial

The most famous film ever shot at Griffith Observatory and the one that put it on the map was, Rebel Without A Cause, starring James Dean. The 1955 film became an international success and forever inspired fans to visit the observatory location. Artist Kenneth Kendall was commissioned by Dean in 1955 to create his portrait and oddly enough Kendall began work on the commission the night Dean was killed. In commemoration of both the film and Dean, the observatory has placed a recently restored copy of the bust on a pedestal with the famous Hollywood sign as a backdrop. This is a most fitting bronze memorial to the actor and the film's location.

Another copy of the bust is located at James Dean Memorial Park in Fairmount, Indiana.

[Phil Pasquini, 07/21/2009]