This Viral Zillow Listing Has an Unexpected Celebrity Backstory

a large house with a large yard
Tour Sally Jessy Raphael's HomeMichael Bowman

When we're not covering the hottest TikTok trends or sharing our two cents on the biggest, most viral home debates, you better believe we're scrolling through Zillow Gone Wild. Sure, window-shopping on Zillow might be everyone's favorite way to pass the time, but the Instagram account handpicks extravagant listings to create a truly special browsing experience. And when one of our favorite Zillow Gone Wild posts just so happens to be a celebrity's home, it's certainly worth celebrating. Or at least that's the case with this upstate New York residence, which was owned by former talk show host Sally Jessy Raphael. (According to listing agent Harriet Norris, the media personality bought the home in 1997 and it's served as her primary residence until today.)

Known for her juicy tabloid television style and fire-engine-red glasses, Raphael is known for embracing her bold side—and this 15,000-square-foot home is no exception. Nestled in Pawling, New York, which is less than 70 miles north of Manhattan, this mansion offers peak maximalist vibes with a mélange of wood-paneled rooms, spaces covered in floor-to-ceiling wallpaper, and gorgeous, stained-glass windows. It's like a modern-day castle, minus the the moat. (That said, this property does have a 12,000-square-foot stable, a yoga studio, and two caretaker's homes. So, really, who needs a moat?)

Though Zillow Gone Wild often posts spaces that are...well, unusual, the internet is low-key obsessed with this opulent, $6.5 million abode. "By the seventh photo, I acquired a monocle," one person jokes. "By the 10th, official aristocrat." Another comments, "Owner should rent this out for murder mystery parties. Has a vibe." (A third even mentioned that this could be "the next set for a Knives Out movie.") But whether you'd want to live in this Shakespearean fantasy or just channel your inner Benoit Blanc here, one thing's for sure: You need a closer look at this pad. So kick back, relax, and scroll on.

The Exterior

Not only does this Elizabethan-style manor home comprise a whopping 43 rooms, but it also looks incredibly majestic on this 25.5-acre property.

a large house with a large yard
Michael Bowman

The Foyer

A grandiose staircase welcomes guests upon arrival, whisking them off to a marvelous-yet-mysterious adventure.

a staircase with art on the walls
a staircase with art on the walls

The Living Room

With exposed wooden beams and decorative grills on the windows, this room is basically straight out of an Agatha Christie novel. (Obviously, we mean that in the best way possible.)

a living room with a piano and a couch
a living room with a piano and a couch

The Dining Room

A textured ceiling and wood-paneled everything makes this dining room the perfect backdrop for a delicious, multi-sensory meal. *Chef's kiss*

sally jessy raphael home
Michael Bowman

The Kitchen

Speaking of a dinner party, no mansion is completely without a impressive kitchen. Multiple ovens, a statement stovetop range, and spacious island make this kitchen a dream for culinary rookies and pros alike.

a kitchen with a stove and oven
a kitchen with a stove and oven

The Bedroom

This residence features 17 bedrooms under its roof, and each one has a special, charming flair. Case in point: This sweet wallpapered area, which is cottagecore at its best.

a living room with a large window
Michael Bowman

The Den

Calling all remote workers: This stone-clad space offers the perfect spot to dial into your Zoom meetings.

sally jessy raphael home
Michael Bowman

The Chapel

As if this house couldn't get more opulent, it even comes with its at-home chapel. Amen to that!

sally jessy raphael home
Michael Bowman

The Music Room

Looking for somewhere to practice your piano concerto? This light, airy room is music to our ears.

sally jessy raphael home
Michael Bowman

The Sitting Area

Between the 10 fireplaces and handful of stunning, stained-glass windows, this estate is packed with swoon-worthy architectural details.

sally jessy raphael home
Michael Bowman

The Sun Room

You don't have to head outside to enjoy this property's view. Simply grab a beverage of your choosing and hang out in this sun-drenched space.

a room with windows and chairs
a room with windows and chairs

The Barn

Why stop at the primary residence? This estate also features two caretaker homes, a carriage house, yoga studio, and 12,000-square-foot stable. (Don't worry: If horses aren't your thing, you can turn it into a multi-car garage for your vintage beauties!)

a large house with a large yard
Michael Bowman

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