Current Ownership of the Viper Room

The Viper Room, situated on the esteemed Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, California, stands as a legendary nightclub and live music venue. Throughout its existence, the Viper Room has witnessed numerous changes in ownership, contributing to its rich and storied history. In this article, we will delve into the current ownership of the Viper Room and explore the transitions it has undergone over the years.

Establishment and Co-Ownership

The Viper Room was established under its current name in 1993, with renowned actors Johnny Depp and Sal Jenco as its co-owners. Depp and Jenco, who had previously worked together as co-stars in the hit TV show “21 Jump Street,” envisioned a club that would not only cater to their celebrity friends but also serve as a personal sanctuary for Depp’s guitar playing away from the prying eyes of the paparazzi.

A Venue for Music of Multiple Genres

Throughout its existence, the Viper Room has maintained its status as a vibrant hub for live music performances spanning various genres. From metal and punk to alternative rock, the club has hosted numerous iconic acts, attracting both established and emerging artists.

Infamy and Drug-Related Incidents

Despite its musical prowess, the Viper Room gained infamy due to its association with drug-related incidents. One such tragic event occurred in 1993 when actor River Phoenix succumbed to a fatal drug overdose at the club. This incident brought significant attention to the Viper Room and underscored the darker side of its reputation.

Transitions in Ownership

In 2004, a pivotal moment in the Viper Room’s ownership history took place when Johnny Depp relinquished his ownership as part of a legal settlement connected to the disappearance of his co-owner, Anthony Fox. This marked a significant shift in the club’s ownership structure and set the stage for subsequent changes.

Between 2004 and 2016, the Viper Room changed hands multiple times, with different individuals and entities taking ownership. These transitions contributed to the club’s evolving identity and continued to shape its trajectory within the music and entertainment industry.

The Present Ownership

As of the available information, the Viper Room is currently owned by Viper Room Holdings, Ltd, with CEO James Cooper at the helm. Under this ownership, the club maintains its status as a prominent venue for live music performances, offering a platform for artists from various genres to showcase their talents.

Conclusion

The Viper Room’s ownership journey has been a dynamic and ever-evolving one. From its establishment with co-owners Johnny Depp and Sal Jenco to its current ownership under Viper Room Holdings, Ltd, the club has remained a vital part of the Sunset Strip’s cultural landscape. Despite the changes in ownership, the Viper Room’s legacy as a renowned live music venue endures, drawing in music enthusiasts and celebrities alike.

Sources

FAQs

Who were the original co-owners of the Viper Room?

The original co-owners of the Viper Room were Johnny Depp and Sal Jenco. They established the club in 1993.

What genres of music are hosted at the Viper Room?

The Viper Room hosts music performances of multiple genres, including metal, punk, and alternative rock.

What incidents brought infamy to the Viper Room?



The Viper Room gained infamy due to its association with drug-related incidents. One notable incident was the fatal drug overdose of actor River Phoenix in 1993.

When did Johnny Depp relinquish his ownership of the Viper Room?

Johnny Depp relinquished his ownership of the Viper Room in 2004 as part of a legal settlement related to the disappearance of his co-owner, Anthony Fox.

Who is the current owner of the Viper Room?

As of the available information, the Viper Room is currently owned by Viper Room Holdings, Ltd, with CEO James Cooper at the helm.

Has the Viper Room changed ownership multiple times?

Yes, the Viper Room has changed hands multiple times between 2004 and 2016, with different individuals and entities taking ownership.

Is the Viper Room still operational under the current ownership?



Yes, under the current ownership, the Viper Room continues to operate as a prominent venue for live music performances.

What is the significance of the Viper Room in Hollywood’s music scene?

The Viper Room holds a significant place in Hollywood’s music scene as a renowned live music venue that attracts both established and emerging artists.