American Landmark Gets New Name
January 12, 2013 12:00 PM 
It opened on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood in 1927. Over the years it has become a landmark with millions of tourists visiting to awe in its unique architecture and place their hands and feet in those of Hollywood movie legends who have had theirs cast in the sidewalk cement. Now, Grauman’s Chinese Theater is no more.
The LA Times reports that the venerable theater has been purchased by Chinese TV maker TCL and is being renamed “TCL Chinese Theater”. The company released a statement explaining their goals.
“This is one of the landmarks of North America,” said Hao Yi, vice president of TCL Group. “It can be a bridge to link the cultures of China and North America.” The 10-year licensing deal will help fund improvements to the 85-year-old property. TCL has also agreed to sponsor a national and international campaign to promote Hollywood and its most famous theater.
via China firm buys naming rights to Grauman’s Chinese Theatre – latimes.com.
Maybe it’s a good thing that the theater can now be renovated and updated but, still, there is something sad about an American landmark losing its uniquely American identity.
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