Every so often, a television show captures our attention, not just with compelling storylines and characters, but also with its stunning visual backdrops. For many, including myself, the HBO hit series Big Little Lies was one such show. Beyond the gripping mystery and stellar performances, the real star for many viewers was the breathtaking scenery, particularly the luxurious homes of Monterey, California. Or so we were led to believe.
What many fans might not realize is that much of the show, especially the iconic beachfront home of Madeline Martha Mackenzie (played by Reese Witherspoon), wasn’t actually filmed in Monterey. In fact, this stunning residence has a rich Hollywood history, far predating Big Little Lies, and boasts a significant connection to another beloved TV series: Diagnosis Murder.
My fascination with Madeline’s house led me down a rabbit hole of online sleuthing, and I soon discovered something remarkable. The elegant Cape Cod style home, which I initially admired for its modern coastal charm in Big Little Lies, bore a striking resemblance to another iconic TV house from my past. It reminded me of the shingled Malibu residence featured in the 90s spin-off Models Inc., and the realization hit me – it’s practically the same house! A bit of digging confirmed my suspicions: Madeline’s picture-perfect home is indeed the same property, just beautifully updated and modernized. The familiar structure, though refreshed with a lighter color palette, awning removals, and an expanded second-floor deck, was undeniably recognizable.
Interestingly, my initial attempt to locate the house in person involved a comical mishap with some rogue tar on the street, preventing a full exploration of the property at the time. Little did I know, fate would bring me back to this location under more celebratory circumstances.
Years later, attending a wedding at the Malibu West Beach Club next door, I unknowingly found myself just steps away from Madeline’s house once more. It was only through aerial views later that I fully grasped the proximity. During the wedding festivities, a group photo on a nearby bluff inadvertently captured the famed residence in the background, a testament to its undeniable presence and local landmark status.
Beyond its appearances in Big Little Lies and Models Inc., this Malibu gem holds a special place in television history as the Diagnosis Murder house. For seasons 3 through 8, this very location served as the on-screen home of Dr. Mark Sloan (Dick Van Dyke) and his son Steve (Barry Van Dyke). Fans of the long-running detective series will instantly recognize the exterior and even interior shots, solidifying its place as the quintessential Diagnosis Murder house.
Adding to its impressive resume, younger audiences might also recognize this versatile property as the Stewart family home from the early seasons of Disney’s Hannah Montana. This further cements its status as a true Hollywood chameleon, adapting seamlessly to various roles and genres.
Stepping inside the real “Diagnosis Murder House,” one discovers a luxurious 6,000-square-foot main residence boasting 6 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, and high-end amenities including a chef’s kitchen, wine cellar, and even a rock sauna. The property also features a detached guest house, offering further accommodation. Despite being portrayed as the “least fabulous” main character’s home in Big Little Lies, the reality is anything but. The interiors are stunning, particularly the kitchen which is truly a dream space for any home enthusiast.
Located at 30760 Broad Beach Road in Malibu, this iconic property, known to many as the “Diagnosis Murder house” and more recently as Madeline’s home in Big Little Lies, is not just a feast for the eyes on screen, but a real-world destination. For those seeking the ultimate fan experience, or simply a luxurious beachfront getaway, the incredible news is that this legendary “Diagnosis Murder house” is available for vacation rental, inviting you to step into the world of your favorite TV shows.
Stalk It (or Rent It!): Experience the magic of the “Diagnosis Murder house” and Madeline’s Big Little Lies residence at 30760 Broad Beach Road, Malibu. Explore rental opportunities and live like your favorite TV characters at Malibu Luxury Vacation Homes.
