The famous Universal Studios Backlot has not only hosted many famous and legendary productions, it has also hosted many legendary directors and producers. Numerous bungalows located on the property have been used by Hollywood legends as production offices. One of the most famous legends who called the backlot home was Alfred Hitchcock. His bungalow on the lot was number 5195.
Sir Alfred Hitchcock initially only resided on the lot as a tenant. His Hollywood contract was held by Paramount, who had balked at producing Psycho. Universal took advantage of his dissatisfaction with Paramount to snag Sir Alfred for themselves, eventually buying the rights to his past films. His films and shooting locations on the lot became huge attractions on the Universal Studios Tour.
Tour guests often asked about Alfred Hitchcock. A facilities manager at Universal played a prank on tour guests (and Sir Alfred) by placing a cardboard cutout of Hitchcock’s famous silhouette in the window, making it appear as though he was busily working in the office. Thousands of guests doubtlessly snapped pictures of their “celebrity sighting.” Sir Alfred rather enjoyed the ruse and the attention he received from it.
