Ed Sullivan statue stolen from Academy of Television Arts and Sciences

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES -- A $45,000 bronze statue of Ed Sullivan was stolen off its pedestal at the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences in North Hollywood.

Investigators say the 20-pound, 1.5-foot figure was swiped over the weekend. It was on display as part of the Hall of Fame Plaza, which is an outdoor exhibit that showcases statues and busts of various TV legends.

Authorities believe the statue was stolen on Sunday. Officials are reviewing surveillance footage to help in their investigation.

Vincent Precht, the grandson of the charismatic variety show host, described him as a private yet competitive man, who would have had mixed reactions to this Hollywood heist.

"He was always after a good story, and if he was in the center the story, that was even better for him," Precht said.

Locals can't help but notice the missing statue.

"I mean it was a really nice statue. Each statue has their own facial feature, and his was just really kind of outgoing and vivacious and just happy-go-lucky kind of statue. His expression was just priceless," described Sara Robertson, a Sherman Oaks resident.

To Sullivan's family, the statue serves as a priceless memento of a man who made television magic and touched lives.

"He was very and still is very important to my family," Precht said. "He occupies, or occupied, that space at the Academy, and I want him back there. I hope that if they can't find it, that they can replace it."

A spokeswoman said the Academy has no comment at this time since it is an ongoing police investigation.