PHOTO: Hollywood funnywoman Rebel Wilson has had a rough time selling her Sydney investment pad. FILE
They’ve got the fame, the fortune, and the multi-million-dollar mansions – but when it comes to selling, even Australia’s biggest celebrities are learning that the property market plays by its own rules.
From Russell Crowe’s $40m harbour penthouse that keeps coming back to market, to Rebel Wilson’s Balmain apartment relisted at a discount, to Lleyton and Bec Hewitt’s Gold Coast retreat that struggled to attract a single bid, these stories prove one thing: star power doesn’t always equal sold.
And it’s not just Aussies. Hollywood royalty like Johnny Depp and Nicolas Cage have also lost millions, showing that property can humble even the most famous names on the planet.
Rebel Wilson’s Auction Flop
Hollywood funnywoman Rebel Wilson has had a rough time selling her Sydney investment pad. After pulling it from auction last year, she’s now relisted the chic Balmain apartment at $2m – a cool $300,000 less than her previous ask.
The two-bedroom heritage conversion in the Lever Brothers soap factory features balconies, a rooftop terrace, and stunning CBD views. But despite the glamour, Rebel is now relying on her sister (and real estate agent) Anna Wilson to get the deal across the line.
Russell Crowe’s $45m Sydney Stalemate
Oscar-winning actor Russell Crowe has one of Sydney’s most exclusive penthouses on Woolloomooloo’s iconic Finger Wharf. Spanning 1000sqm with seven car spaces and a marina berth, it’s pure luxury.
But even Crowe’s star appeal couldn’t land a buyer. Originally picked up for $14.35m in 2003, it’s since been floated for up to $45m, yet no deal has stuck.
The Hewitts’ Price Cut on the Gold Coast
Tennis ace Lleyton Hewitt and wife Bec discovered the harsh reality of auctions when their Gold Coast mansion failed to attract a single bidder – despite over 100 people showing up.
Eventually, the couple slashed the price by $200,000, finally selling for $4.9m after months of limbo.
Ian Thorpe’s Tough Lap in Woollahra
Swimming legend Ian Thorpe hasn’t had it easy either. His $3.7m Woollahra townhouse failed at auction, passed in on a vendor bid. Even after dropping the price guide, buyers just didn’t bite in a cooling Sydney market.
Ian Thorpe has faced lengthy challenges in selling his luxurious Woollahra apartment despite its prime location. Picture: Rohan Kelly
Refurbished by designers Ridgway Sassella, the townhouse comes with 164sq m of indoor and 52sq m of outdoor living. Picture: realestate.com.au
Of course the home comes with a pool.
Chrissie Swan’s Renovation Miss
Media personality Chrissie Swan poured her heart into a “Hollywood-inspired” Hawthorn East renovation. But despite naming her homes ‘Judy’ and ‘Liza’ after icons, she sold for $2.5m – just under her guide, and far from a profit.
Chrissie Swan has sold her colourful Hawthorn East home. Picture: Christian Gilles.
Tobi Pearce’s Penthouse Loss
Fitness entrepreneur Tobi Pearce sold his Adelaide penthouse for $5.1m – less than the record $5.287m he paid in 2021. Despite its luxury features, the market didn’t deliver the return he hoped for.
Buddy & Jesinta Franklin’s $12m Struggle
Former AFL superstar Buddy Franklin and wife Jesinta are still trying to shift their $12m Gold Coast hinterland retreat, Villa Casa. Despite resort-style amenities and luxury finishes, no buyer has yet signed the dotted line.
Buddy Franklin and wife Jesinta with a Gai Waterhouse trained horse Knights Order. Picture: Jason Edwards
Hollywood Failures: Depp & Cage
Overseas, the struggles get even bigger. Johnny Depp has tried and failed for years to sell his 19th-century French village, once priced at $63m. Meanwhile, Nicolas Cage lost castles, mansions, and even a private island after his real estate empire crumbled into foreclosure.
Why Celebrities Lose Big on Property
These cases show that property is the great equaliser. Whether you’re a Hollywood star or a local sporting hero, the market decides what sells – not your name.
For some, it means slashing prices. For others, it means sitting on luxury properties that simply won’t budge.
Because at the end of the day, not even celebrity status guarantees a sold sign.
Actor Nicolas Cage was forced to sell a large number of properties at a loss due to substantial IRS debts.
SOURCE: REALESTATE.COM.AU