It's Official: RoboCop Stands Guard Over Detroit at Last

Detroit's Eastern Market has a new sentinel: an imposing 11-foot-tall, 3,500-pound bronze statue of RoboCop.

 

Installed on December 3, 2025, this tribute to the city's cinematic hero now stands proudly outside the FREE AGE film production company at 3434 Russell Street.

 

Despite a snowstorm, fans flocked to witness the unveiling, underscoring the character's enduring appeal.

 

The journey to this moment began in 2011 with a tweet suggesting that Detroit should have a statue of RoboCop, akin to Philadelphia's Rocky Balboa.

 

This sparked a Kickstarter campaign that raised over $67,000 from more than 2,700 backers worldwide.

 

Detroit sculptor Giorgio Gikas completed the statue in 2017, but finding a suitable location proved challenging.

 

After years of deliberation, the Eastern Market location was chosen, providing a fitting backdrop for the city's new landmark.

 

Jim Toscano, co-owner of FREE AGE, expressed his excitement: "It's too unusual, too unique, too cool not to do."

 

He noted that even in adverse weather, there was a steady stream of visitors eager to see the statue.

 

The 1987 film "RoboCop" depicted a dystopian Detroit plagued by crime, with the titular character serving as a symbol of hope and justice.

 

Over the years, the city has undergone significant transformation, and the statue now stands as a testament to both its cinematic legacy and its resilience.

 

Local resident James Campbell, who contributed to the original crowdfunding campaign, remarked, "What a piece of cinematic history to represent the city of Detroit."

 

He sees the statue as a symbol of hope, reflecting the character's role in the film as a protector of the city.

 

As Detroit continues to evolve, the RoboCop statue serves as a reminder of its rich cultural tapestry and the enduring power of community-driven initiatives.

 

Visitors are encouraged to stop by Eastern Market to witness this new addition to the city's landscape.

 

For a closer look at the statue's installation and community reactions, watch the video below: