Clint Eastwood

Actor, Director, Former Mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea

Clint Eastwood, the Hollywood legend known for The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and Dirty Harry, has long held a special place in Carmel’s story. In 1986, he made headlines not for a movie role, but for stepping into civic life as Mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

During his two-year term as mayor, Eastwood focused on cutting red tape, preserving the town’s natural beauty, and supporting the local arts scene. His love for Carmel has remained strong ever since. He’s also been instrumental in the development of Mission Ranch, a restored inn and restaurant with pastoral views and live jazz, which he purchased and revitalized in the mid-1980s.

Today, Eastwood is celebrated not only as a cinematic icon, but also as one of Carmel’s most enduring stewards of community and culture.