‘CBS Sunday Morning’ features historic Montecito estate listed for $39.995 million

SANTA BARBARA — A historic Montecito mansion whose former guests include Albert Einstein, Winston Churchill and John F. Kennedy, was the featured backdrop to CBS Sunday Morning’s annual “By Design” edition Sunday.

The grand El Fureidis estate, famous for its appearance in the 1983 movie “Scarface,” is one of the most exceptional properties in an area renowned for its opulent homes and celebrity residents. Designed by celebrated architect Bertram Goodhue, the almost 12,000-square-foot home resembles a classic Roman villa and is set among 10 acres of Persian-style water gardens, lush landscaping, and terraces with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Award-winning television host Jane Pauley anchored Sunday’s program from the estate. El Fureidis is currently on the market for $39,995 million. The listing is held by Riskin Partners Estates Group, the luxury division of Montecito-based Village Properties.

Robert Riskin, Jasmine Tennis, Dina Landi, Sarah Hanacek. Courtesy photo.

“We are thrilled to have El Furiedis host Jane Pauley and this weekend’s CBS Sunday Morning,” said Riskin Partner’s Jasmine Tennis. “El Fureidis has such a rich and interesting history, and we love that CBS is featuring this incredible property – and our amazing community – with their viewership.”

In “Scarface,” the outside of El Furiedis was used for the home of Al Pacino’s character, Tony Montana. In real life, the property’s former owners include the famous German author, Thomas Mann.

The acclaimed property’s latest TV appearance builds on a long tradition at CBS Sunday Morning of broadcasting from a prominent location each May for a show focused on design and travel. Previous editions have featured Hearst Castle, the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, and The Breakers in Rhode Island. Other episodes have taken viewers to Florence, London and Amsterdam.

In addition to exploring the history of El Furiedis, which literally translates to “tropical paradise,” Sunday’s show delved into the rich history of the Santa Barbara area, including its Spanish-inspired design and former reputation as the “Hollywood of the North.”