News Summary
The iconic neon sign from the late Debbie Reynolds’ hotel has been restored and illuminated at the Las Vegas Neon Museum. This project, which took nine months and was funded through various donations, honors Reynolds’ legacy in the entertainment industry. Initially erected at the Debbie Reynolds Hollywood Hotel, the sign stands as a tribute to her significant contributions to Las Vegas and serves as a reminder of the city’s vibrant history. The restoration included meticulous efforts by skilled neon artists to preserve the authenticity of the original design.
Las Vegas – The neon sign from the late Debbie Reynolds’ hotel has been successfully restored and relit at the Las Vegas Neon Museum, marking a significant moment in honoring her legacy. The restoration project culminated on October 9, 2025, with the sign’s debut after nearly three decades of disrepair.
Initially erected at the Debbie Reynolds Hollywood Hotel, the sign, measuring 24 feet long, was discovered in a rusted and faded state in the museum’s boneyard. The restoration, which took approximately nine months to complete, was funded through a $50,000 annual conservation fund established between the Neon Museum and YESCO, a prominent sign company. Various donors contributed financially to the project as well.
The restoration process involved skilled neon artists who intricately recreated parts of the sign, as many of the original tubes had deteriorated due to toxic mercury rendering them unusable. For authenticity, YESCO’s team used a new color, EGL coral pink, to match the sign’s original VOL mercury rose hue.
The significance of the sign transcends its aesthetic appeal for many in the Las Vegas community. The sign stands as a tribute to Debbie Reynolds, who was an influential figure in the entertainment industry. Reynolds moved to Las Vegas full-time in 1962 after securing a million-dollar deal with the Riviera Hotel and Casino, where she began her lasting connection to the city.
Reynolds launched a new show at the Desert Inn on July 28, 1971, where she featured her daughter, Carrie Fisher, and son, Todd Fisher. Carrie Fisher later became well-known for her role as Princess Leia in the “Star Wars” franchise. Reynolds continued to grace the Las Vegas Strip with performances until the early 2000s, symbolizing her deep commitment to the area.
In 1992, Reynolds expanded her footprint in Las Vegas by purchasing the Debbie Reynolds Hollywood Hotel. The hotel, while themed around Hollywood and showcasing her memorabilia, struggled financially, resulting in her filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 1997 and subsequently closing its doors.
The importance of the restored sign goes beyond nostalgia; it embodies the family legacy of the Fishers and the broader history of Las Vegas entertainment. Todd Fisher remarked on the personal connection he has with the sign, acknowledging how few children have the chance to see their mother’s name illuminated in lights.
The Neon Museum’s goal in preserving and relighting historical signs is tied to enhancing the visitor experience, as tourists increasingly express a desire for more illuminated displays. The museum also serves as a haven for showcasing the rich tapestry of Las Vegas history through the lens of its iconic neon signs.
Debbie Reynolds was not only a celebrated entertainer but also a savvy businesswoman whose contributions have left a lasting impact on Las Vegas culture. The hotel’s neon sign now stands as a beacon of her legacy, drawing attention to both her personal achievements and the vibrant history of the Las Vegas entertainment industry.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Vegas: Debbie Reynolds Performs in Las Vegas
- Fox 5 Vegas: This Day in History
- Review Journal: Debbie Reynolds Name in Lights
- KTNV: Neon Museum to Relight Debbie Reynolds Sign
- News 3 LV: Relighting of Debbie Reynolds Sign
- Wikipedia: Debbie Reynolds
- Google Search: Debbie Reynolds
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Debbie Reynolds
- Google News: Debbie Reynolds
Author: STAFF HERE LAS VEGAS WRITER
LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER The LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELasVegas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Las Vegas, Clark County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Electric Daisy Carnival, World Series of Poker, and Consumer Electronics Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Three Square Food Bank, plus leading businesses in hospitality and entertainment that power the local economy such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Nevada's dynamic landscape.
