Several years ago, otsoNY revealed a host of filming locations from the movie “Desperately Seeking Susan” which starred Madonna in her first motion picture. One of the locations was that of Dez’s rundown apartment, though at the time otsoNY was unable to gain access to the legendary fire escape situated inside a private alleyway, where Dez, played by Aidan Quinn and Roberta Glass played by Rosanna Arquette had made their way up to his apartment.

Fire Escape in the year 2023

Now for the first time, otsoNY has been allowed exclusive access inside the building on West 19th Street situated between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, and can reveal that nothing has changed in the thirty-eight years since the film was released in the mid-80s.

The scene in question takes place at thirty-eight minutes and shows Dez arriving on a scooter that he had borrowed from the Dragon Noodle, a Chinese restaurant situated below his apartment. He and Roberta, who he thought was in fact he’s friend’s part-time girlfriend Susan, hand back the scooter to a disgruntled member of staff and then make their way into the dimly-lit alleyway, where Roberta pauses for a brief moment to take in the environment that she now finds herself in.

Scene from Desperately Seeking Susan

Scene from Desperately Seeking Susan

Scene from Desperately Seeking Susan

Heading up the black painted fire escape, Dez takes ownership of Roberta’s suitcase and walks ahead of Roberta leading the way to his apartment. As they climb fire escape, the pair are passed by removal workers carrying items of furniture, of which Dez recognises of his own, but isn’t certain. His concerns are met by his ex-girlfriend when he enters the apartment and finds her inside removing the items.

Scene from Desperately Seeking Susan

Scene from Desperately Seeking Susan

In 1985, the lower ground of the property was empty, whereas today in 2023, it is being used for storage, whereas the black iron fire escape has not changed in appearance. The images will now be included in the “Desperately Seeking Susan” film location page.

Exclusive Image of the Fire Escape

Exclusive Image of the Fire Escape

Exclusive Image of the Fire Escape