Actor John Goodman’s Historic New Orleans Mansion Hits the Market for $5.5 Million

John Goodman, the acclaimed actor best known for his roles in Roseanne, The Conners, and The Big Lebowski, is parting ways with the Joseph Merrick Jones House, his longtime residence in the New Orleans Garden District.

The home, built in the mid-1800s, blends Italianate and Greek Revival architecture and has been a centerpiece of the neighborhood’s rich history. Goodman and his wife, Anna Beth, purchased the property in 2005 from Trent Reznor in an off-market deal for $1.8 million.

Now, after nearly 20 years, they are listing it for $5.5 million.

Property Highlights

• Price: $5.5 million
• Location: New Orleans, LA (Garden District)
• Size: Nearly 5,000 square feet
• Bedrooms: 4
• Bathrooms: 5
• Notable Features: 14-foot ceilings, six fireplaces, hand-carved millwork, grand staircase, chef’s kitchen, saltwater pool, deep double galleries, gated entry

Inside The Joseph Merrick Jones House

Set on a quarter-acre corner lot, the two-story white wood-sided home is tucked behind ancient Crepe Myrtles, offering both privacy and charm. The deep double galleries, a hallmark of New Orleans architecture, provide a picturesque view of the lush gardens.

Inside, the home showcases 14-foot ceilings, intricate plaster medallions, a bay-window banquette, and hand-painted hardwood floors.

South Foyer Rooted in History

A sweeping staircase with white balusters and a dark wood handrail creates a striking focal point, leading to the upper levels with effortless elegance. A stately console table, flanked by vibrant cobalt lamps, anchors the space beneath a dramatic, gilded painting.

Architectural details like crown molding and period lighting fixtures reinforce the home’s 19th-century pedigree.

Every detail speaks to a refined yet inviting aesthetic, blending old-world opulence with timeless Southern warmth.

Main Living Room

John’s living room is a vibrant reflection of historic Southern elegance with a touch of artistic flair. Deep green walls set a dramatic backdrop for antique furnishings, a richly patterned area rug, and a striking emerald velvet sofa.

A stately fireplace, topped with a gilded mirror, anchors the room, while built-in bookshelves and an armoire add warmth and character. Layered textures—from embroidered cushions to carved wood accents—enhance the home’s aesthetic.

Formal Dining Room

Goodman’s formal dining room is a masterclass in French-American inspo, anchored by a gleaming parquet floor and an ornate chandelier. The octagonal wood inlay adds warmth and depth, complementing the room’s richly draped windows and crown molding.

A grand fireplace, one of six in the home, features hand-carved grapevine motifs, reinforcing the space’s classical refinement.

Chef’s Kitchen and Family Room

The chef’s kitchen, featuring quartzite countertops, custom cabinetry, and high-end appliances, introduces a modern touch while maintaining the home’s historic integrity. A spacious island anchors the space, illuminated by statement pendant lights, while custom-paneled appliances seamlessly integrate into the design.

A closer look at the Wolf range sits beneath a striking copper hood, paired with a pot filler for functionality.

Flowing into the family room, the space embraces comfort with a cozy fireplace, checkered drapery, and vintage-inspired furnishings. French doors open to the exterior, allowing natural light to brighten the inviting atmosphere.

Heading Upstairs

A curved staircase with a dark-wood banister leads to the primary suite, where a four-poster bed sits beneath intricate crown molding and a dazzling chandelier.

The suite’s marble fireplace adds warmth, while floor-length drapery softens the room’s historic elegance.

The en-suite bath is bright and airy, with a freestanding soaking tub, glass-enclosed shower, and dual vanities beneath an arched mirror.

Laslty, a private dressing room makes a bold statement with striking orange shelving, a tufted bench, and a vintage-style chandelier.

Together, these spaces blend period details with modern luxury in a timeless New Orleans setting.

Guest Suites and Reading Nook

The upper hallways of the home are dressed with vibrant Audubon prints and deep green drapery, leading to two additional guest bedrooms.

A cozy reading nook, framed by built-in bookshelves and an inviting red velvet armchair, also provide a quiet escape. The furnishings truly enhance the historic build.

Escaping That Bayou Heat

Outside, the home features a saltwater pool, a covered veranda, and lush landscaping, making it a true Garden District retreat.

Additional amenities include a whole-house generator, off-street parking, and gated access.

With its blend of history, luxury, and prime location near St. Charles Avenue and Magazine Street, John Goodman’s New Orleans estate offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of the city’s architectural history.