Jim Rome—sports radio legend, provocative television host, and king of sports debate—has built a career on bold opinions and a no-nonsense attitude. But behind the microphone lies a luxurious, private world that mirrors his success: Jim Rome’s house. Nestled in the upscale enclave of Irvine, California, this sprawling estate isn’t just a home—it’s a statement of achievement, blending sophistication with the laid-back elegance of Southern California living.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James Phillip Rome |
| Date of Birth | October 14, 1964 |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 8 inches (175 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 143 lbs (65 kg) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Janet Rome (m. 1997) |
| Children | Two sons: Jake and Logan |
| Current Residence | Irvine, California |
| Net Worth (2024-2025) | Approximately $110 million |
| Annual Income | Around $30 million |
| Occupation | Sports radio talk show host, media personality |
| Known For | Hosting The Jim Rome Show and Jim Rome Is Burning |
In this deep dive, we’ll uncover every corner of this celebrity retreat, from its grand motor court to the spa-like main bathroom. Perfect for sports fans, luxury real estate enthusiasts, or anyone curious about how the other half lives, this article peels back the curtain on one of Irvine’s most prestigious properties. Buckle up—whether you’re here for design inspiration or pure fascination, Jim Rome’s house promises to deliver.
Background on Jim Rome
Before stepping into his mansion, let’s rewind. Jim Rome catapulted to fame in the 1990s with The Jim Rome Show, a sports talk radio program known for its brash takes and rapid-fire interviews. Over the past 30 years, he has expanded into television (ESPN, CBS Sports) and podcasting, becoming synonymous with sports debate culture. His persona? Confident, unapologetic, and sharp—an on-air intensity that contrasts with the tranquility of his private life.
But how does a public figure like Rome unwind? Enter his Irvine estate: a sanctuary designed for privacy, luxury, and escape. Acquired in 2006 and later sold for a staggering $12.5 million, this home isn’t just a residence—it’s a legacy of success.
Location and Overview of Jim Rome’s House
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| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Owner | Jim Rome, sports radio host, known for “The Jim Rome Show” |
| Location/Address | Irvine, California, within Shady Canyon gated golf course community (Exact address not publicly disclosed) |
| Year Built | 2007 |
| Property Size | Approximately 1 acre lot |
| House Size | Around 12,300 square feet |
| Architecture Style | Italian Villa-style |
| Structure | Three-story home with an attached pavilion |
| Bedrooms/Bathrooms | 6 bedrooms, 8.5 bathrooms |
| Special Features | Elevator, wine cellar, wood-paneled lounge with game room and gym, speakeasy-style bar, tiered theater room seating, boutique-inspired closets, chandelier-topped soaking tub, French doors opening to private balcony. The property also includes private courtyards, a large saltwater/infinity swimming pool, and an outdoor spa. Executive wing with two offices. French doors provide panoramic city, golf course, and mountain views. Formal living room has barrel ceilings and a marble-surrounded fireplace. Kitchen connects to spacious family room. Vaulted ceilings evoke cathedral grandeur in some areas. |
| Architectural Highlights | Designed as a sprawling villa with luxury amenities; emphasizes indoor-outdoor living and scenic views; interior reflects high-end finishes like marble, crystal chandeliers, vaulted ceilings; the design nods to classic Italian Villa style combined with modern luxurious comforts. |
| Market History | Purchased by Jim Rome in 2003; listed for sale multiple times: almost $14 million in 2016/17, sold for $12.5 million in 2017 (a record for the Irvine community); later listings approximate $11 million with remodeled aspects reflecting Santa Barbara style and coastal influences. |
| Historical Notes | The home set the Orange County record for single-family home sale at $12.5 million in 2017. The property is located within a private, prestigious community known as Shady Canyon, highlighting exclusivity and privacy. Jim Rome has been a prominent figure in sports talk radio since the mid-1990s and leveraged this house as a personal retreat. |
| Additional Info | The home has extensive landscaping with golf course and mountain views, emphasizing privacy and luxury lifestyle atop a hill. |
“Shady Canyon”: Where Privacy Meets Prestige
Tucked inside Irvine’s gated Shady Canyon community, Rome’s former home sits on a sprawling 1-acre lot. The neighborhood—a magnet for CEOs and athletes—boasts 24/7 security, manicured golf courses, and panoramic views of the Santa Ana Mountains. For someone in the spotlight, it’s the perfect hideaway.
By the Numbers
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- Size: 12,300 square feet (think: three basketball courts!)
- Bedrooms: 6 (including a jaw-dropping main suite)
- Bathrooms: 8.5 (yes, even the half-bath is marble-clad)
- Sale Price: $12.5 million (a record-setter for Irvine at the time).
Architecturally, the house blends Santa Barbara charm—characterized by red-tile roofs and arched doorways—with sleek, modern interiors. Floor-to-ceiling windows and open layouts create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, while the private balconies offer postcard-worthy views of the golf course and city below.
Exterior Features
Grandeur at First Sight
The estate’s entrance sets the tone: a sweeping motor court anchored by a classical stone fountain. It’s the kind of arrival that screams “celebrity,” yet feels inviting. Beyond the gates lie outdoor spaces crafted for leisure and luxury:
- Saltwater Pool & Spa: Surrounded by lounge chairs and cabanas, this is California living at its finest.
- Bocce Ball Court: A nod to casual sophistication, perfect for weekend competitions.
- Outdoor Kitchen: Equipped with a pizza oven, grill, and bar seating—ideal for hosting ESPN colleagues or family gatherings.
- Lush Gardens: Manicured hedges, olive trees, and flowering shrubs frame the property, offering both beauty and privacy.
Privacy is paramount. High walls, gated entryways, and strategic landscaping shield the home from prying eyes—a must for a public figure like Rome.
Interior Highlights — A Grand Tour
Grand Entrance and Foyer
Step inside, and the double-height foyer stuns with vaulted ceilings, marble floors, and a cascading chandelier. Arched doorways and wrought-iron accents evoke old-world elegance, while modern art pieces hint at Rome’s eclectic taste.
Kitchen and Dining
The kitchen is a chef’s dream:
- Oversized Center Island: Topped with Calacatta marble, it’s a hub for meals and mingling.
- Breakfast Nook: Bathed in natural light, with views of the garden.
- Formal Dining Room: Seats 12 under a crystal chandelier, where Rome likely hosted post-game dinners.
Living Spaces
The great room blurs indoor and outdoor living. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open to verandas, while plush seating faces a limestone fireplace. Nearby, a cozy family room features a wet bar and glass walls that retract completely—ideal for game-day gatherings.
Main Suite — The Celebrity Retreat
Spanning an entire floor, the main suite includes:
- Bedroom: Vaulted ceilings, a fireplace, and sconce-lit walls.
- Closet: A “boutique-style” walk-in with custom shelving and display cases.
- Bathroom: A freestanding tub under a chandelier, dual vanities, and a rainfall shower.
- Balcony: Private access to mountain views.
Entertainment and Recreation Areas
When work ends, play begins:
- Speakeasy-Style Bar: Wood-paneled walls, leather stools, and a hidden wine cellar.
- Home Theater: Tiered seating, surround sound, and a 120-inch screen.
- Gym: Top-tier equipment and mirrors lining the walls.
Executive Home Offices
Two soundproofed offices, each equipped with built-in desks and shelving, promote productivity. Natural light streams in, while French doors offer quick escapes to the garden.
Unique Features and Modern Luxuries
Feature Details
Smart Home Tech Automated lighting, climate, and security systems controlled via tablet.
Elevator Services all three floors (no stairs required).
Design Blend Santa Barbara exteriors meet minimalist interiors for timeless appeal.
The house also includes a temperature-controlled wine cellar and reclaimed wood beams—details that merge functionality with artistry.
The Lifestyle: Jim Rome’s Private Sanctuary
For Rome, this home was more than a status symbol; it was a symbol of prestige. Between recording podcasts and debating sports takes, the estate offered quiet moments—morning coffees on the balcony, laps in the saltwater pool, or dinners under the stars. It’s a retreat designed to balance the chaos of fame with the calm of home.
Market Impact and Real Estate Significance
Rome’s $12.5 million sale in 2017 highlighted Irvine’s booming luxury market. Comparable to homes owned by Kobe Bryant and Zack Greinke, this property reflects SoCal’s appetite for ultra-private, amenity-rich estates. Celebrity homes in this area often appreciate rapidly, blending investment potential with unrivaled lifestyle perks.
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