In 2001, Hugh Grant went to an auction that turned him into an art collector, somewhat unwillingly. Under the influence of alcohol, he didn't really know what he was doing when he bought an Andy Warhol artwork. But a few years later, he realized that he had had a phenomenal opportunity.
Hugh Grant was drunk at the sale
In 2001, the English actor went to Sotheby's to attend a prestigious sale.
Hugh Grant - Kurt Kulac ©
Hugh Grant took the opportunity to talk and drink a few champagne glasses. He finally got drunk and decided it was a good day to become an art collector.
The artwork he bought
That day, Hugh Grant bought a version of Andy Warhol's Liz, a series depicting the actress Elizabeth Taylor, for £2 million.
Liz, Andy Warhol
He left with his purchase under his arm, not really knowing what he had just bought...
Beginner's luck?
Hugh Grant kept this Warhol piece for 6 years and sold it in 2007 for £13 million, a gain of £11 million.
Hugh Grant at a golf tournament in 2007 - Will Compernolle ©
Moral of this story, drink or bid, why choose? Since this drunken event, Hugh Grant has not been heard again on the art market.
