N
icole Avant's Los Angeles villa is a testament to her family's rich history and her own dedication to honoring their legacy. Growing up in Beverly Hills, she was surrounded by the likes of Mohammed Ali, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sidney Poitier, who were regular guests at her parents' home. Her mother, Jacqueline Avant, would often host dinner parties that celebrated Black American entrepreneurs, lawyers, scientists, and professors from historically Black colleges and universities.

    The "Great Wall," a space in their childhood home, was dedicated to these individuals, with photographs and mementos adorning the walls. Nicole remembers her mother teaching her about the importance of Black history every day before she left for school. This upbringing instilled in her a sense of pride and responsibility to carry on her family's legacy.

    After her mother's murder in 2021, Nicole's father, Clarence Avant, moved in with her and her husband, Ted Sarandos. She encouraged him to bring his favorite objects from their childhood home, which he did, sparking the transformation of their 15,000-square-foot Tuscan villa into a space that honors their parents' values and memories.

    Throughout the house, objects from the Great Wall are displayed, including a photograph of Frederick Douglass next to a handwritten letter he penned in 1877. The "Magic Room," a two-story banquet hall, features busts of notable figures like Duke Ellington and Paul Robeson, as well as a painting by Chaz Guest titled "Humanity." This artwork resonated with both Nicole and her mother because it celebrates love and unity despite cultural differences.

    Nicole's parties at the villa aim to celebrate art, culture, and community, rather than fame. Guests have included Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and other notable figures. The couple's home in Hancock Park, which they purchased for $15 million in 2015, was previously owned by Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas.

    Nicole and Ted Sarandos, who has worked at Netflix for 25 years, often host events and fund-raisers at the estate. Their parties are a testament to Nicole's mother's legacy as a skilled party host and her own dedication to carrying on that tradition. The couple's home is not only a reflection of their family's history but also a celebration of Black culture and community.

    As a film producer, Nicole has worked on several projects, including the documentary "The Black Godfather" about her father's impact on music, film, and politics. Her recent project, "The Six Triple Eight," tells the story of an all-Black battalion of women who served in Europe during World War II. The film was inspired by her mother's stories and features Kerry Washington as Major Charity Adams, the battalion's commander.

    Nicole's parents continue to be her guiding force, and she has honored their legacy through various projects. Her father deserves credit for changing people's lives, while her mother left a lasting impact on those around her. Nicole's home in Hancock Park is a testament to their love, legacy, and commitment to celebrating Black culture and community.