What Do Beverly Hills' Wives and Its Welcome Signs Have in Common?

They're both being replaced by something younger and more attractive.

Above, the new Beverly Hills welcome sign at Wilshire and San Vicente sits to the right of the old sign. The new ones appear to be brighter, with "Beverly Hills" much easier to read, and taller than the old ones.

And by the way, I was being flip above. The new signs, with their neon yellow, may be easier to read -- but they're hideous. They lack the grace and subtlety of the old signs. Yuk.

Of course, the Beverly Hills welcome signs have become icons through the years, thanks in part to Hollywood. The sign has been used as props and for establishing shots for decades, and has even made its way into movie logos:



Seems we have a trend on our hands; Glendale recently changed its welcome signs, while the city of Los Angeles has added several to spots around town (such as the Topanga Canyon off ramp of the 118) where previously none existed.