UPDATE: The iconic Martinique wallpaper from The Golden Girls is back in the spotlight as the beloved show marks its 40th anniversary with a special airing on November 11, 2023, at 10 p.m. EST on ABC. This special edition of 20/20 promises to explore the wallpaper’s cultural significance and its enduring legacy in design and pop culture.
The bold green banana leaf design, prominently featured in Blanche Devereaux’s bedroom, has captivated audiences and artists alike for decades. Fashion designer Daniel Silverstein, a devoted fan, has launched a collection inspired by the show’s aesthetic, underscoring the wallpaper’s impact on contemporary fashion. Silverstein describes the series as a perfect blend of “camp, kitsch, and fashion,” showcasing how it continues to resonate with audiences.
The Martinique wallpaper, with its tropical design reminiscent of the Caribbean, has a rich history dating back to the early 1940s. The pattern was inspired by a trip to the Bahamas and commissioned by Lucile Chatain from designer Albert Stockdale. Its journey to fame began when Hollywood designer Don Loper selected it to renovate the Beverly Hills Hotel in 1948, where it remains a permanent fixture due to the hotel’s landmark status.
The wallpaper made its television debut in the pilot episode of The Golden Girls in 1985, where it introduced fans to the vibrant world of Dorothy, Rose, Sophia, and Blanche. It later graced the walls of the Indochine restaurant in New York City in the early 1980s, further solidifying its status in pop culture.
As the anniversary special approaches, viewers will not only revisit the wallpaper’s significance but also explore other beloved elements that shaped The Golden Girls. This event is set to stream on Disney+ and Hulu the day after its television premiere, making it accessible for fans everywhere.
The emotional connection many have with The Golden Girls continues as the show’s themes of friendship and laughter resonate today. With the upcoming special, fans are invited to reflect on how this iconic series has influenced fashion, merchandise, and the overall cultural landscape. Stay tuned for what promises to be a heartfelt celebration of a show that has left an indelible mark on television history.
