Chicago – In 1963, Judy Garland had a CBS-TV variety series, and in December there was a Christmas episode featuring her kids … including Liza Minnelli. Playwright Desiree Burcum and the comedy troupe Famous In The Future have created (click link) ”A Judy Christmas” as a stage play.
The show, presented by Famous In The Future productions, will have three performances the week before Christmas, December 15th, 16th and 17th, at the Den Theatre in Chicago.
Desiree Burcum (front of line) as Judy Garland in ‘A Judy Christmas’
Photo credit: FamousInTheFuture.com
On Friday December 6th, 1963, a mere 11 days after the assassination and funeral of John F. Kennedy – Judy Garland was a friend of his – the singer and her children, with guest stars Jack Jones and Mel Tormé, gathered to film the Christmas special. It was part of the Judy Garland Show, which ran from 1963-64. With the heavy mourning of a nation over the proceedings,...
The show, presented by Famous In The Future productions, will have three performances the week before Christmas, December 15th, 16th and 17th, at the Den Theatre in Chicago.
Desiree Burcum (front of line) as Judy Garland in ‘A Judy Christmas’
Photo credit: FamousInTheFuture.com
On Friday December 6th, 1963, a mere 11 days after the assassination and funeral of John F. Kennedy – Judy Garland was a friend of his – the singer and her children, with guest stars Jack Jones and Mel Tormé, gathered to film the Christmas special. It was part of the Judy Garland Show, which ran from 1963-64. With the heavy mourning of a nation over the proceedings,...
- 12/10/2023
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
The Los Angeles premiere of the new Paramount+ original series “Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies” was held on Wednesday, March 29 at the Hollywood American Legion Post 43. Gold Derby’s associate editor Latasha Ford interviewed several cast members and behind-the-scenes talent including actors Cheyenne Isabel Wells, Jackie Hoffman, Shanel Bailey, Josette Halpert, Vivian Lomolli, Emma Shannon, Dylan Sloane, Madison Thompson and Niamh Wilson, creator Annabel Oakes, “Grease 2” star Lorna Luft, executive producer Alethea Jones, choreographer and director Jamal Sims and executive music producer Justin Tranter on the red carpet. Watch the video above.
The musical series takes place four years before the original “Grease.” In 1954, before rock ‘n’ roll ruled, before the T-Birds were the coolest in the school, four fed-up outcasts dare to have fun on their own terms, sparking a moral panic that will change Rydell High forever. The show will premiere on Thursday, April 6, exclusively on Paramount+ in the U.
The musical series takes place four years before the original “Grease.” In 1954, before rock ‘n’ roll ruled, before the T-Birds were the coolest in the school, four fed-up outcasts dare to have fun on their own terms, sparking a moral panic that will change Rydell High forever. The show will premiere on Thursday, April 6, exclusively on Paramount+ in the U.
- 3/30/2023
- by Latasha Ford and Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
Howard Bragman — an architect of modern public relations and queer rights advocate who died last month — was celebrated by friends, family, and former clients in an emotional memorial on Sunday in Los Angeles.
A packed private park in North Hollywood adorned with string lights and a humble stage welcomed guests including Stevie Wonder, Lizzy Caplan, Melissa Rivers, Judy Garland’s daughter Lorna Luft, and Bragman’s musician husband Michael Maimone. Industry types in attendance included Oscar winner and “The Woman King” producer Cathy Shulman, former Entertainment Weekly editor Jess Cagle, and former “Good Morning America” hosts Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes. Bragman’s brother Adam and his client Don Lemon sent video tributes honoring the late executive.
“Honestly, I’m kind of shocked that Howard has allowed me to speak without going over talking points and vetting the audience,” joked Rivers, a long-time Bragman charge who said she “lost a true friend and trusted advisor.
A packed private park in North Hollywood adorned with string lights and a humble stage welcomed guests including Stevie Wonder, Lizzy Caplan, Melissa Rivers, Judy Garland’s daughter Lorna Luft, and Bragman’s musician husband Michael Maimone. Industry types in attendance included Oscar winner and “The Woman King” producer Cathy Shulman, former Entertainment Weekly editor Jess Cagle, and former “Good Morning America” hosts Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes. Bragman’s brother Adam and his client Don Lemon sent video tributes honoring the late executive.
“Honestly, I’m kind of shocked that Howard has allowed me to speak without going over talking points and vetting the audience,” joked Rivers, a long-time Bragman charge who said she “lost a true friend and trusted advisor.
- 3/6/2023
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Chicago – This year was the 100th anniversary for the birth of the classic movie star/singer/performer Judy Garland. In 1963, as part of her regular CBS-TV variety series, she presented a Christmas episode, featuring her family … including Liza Minnelli. Playwright Desiree Burcum has created a musical comedy about this historic moment in television, appropriately titled “A Judy Christmas.” The show, presented by Famous In The Future productions, will have three performances the week before Christmas, December 15th, 16th and 17th, at the Den Theatre in Chicago. For tickets and more information, A Judy Christmas.
A Judy Christmas
Photo credit: FamousInTheFuture.com
On Friday December 6th, 1963, a mere 11 days after the assassination and funeral of John F. Kennedy – Judy Garland was a friend of his – the singer and her children, with guest stars Jack Jones and Mel Tormé, gathered to film the Christmas special. It was part of the Judy Garland Show,...
A Judy Christmas
Photo credit: FamousInTheFuture.com
On Friday December 6th, 1963, a mere 11 days after the assassination and funeral of John F. Kennedy – Judy Garland was a friend of his – the singer and her children, with guest stars Jack Jones and Mel Tormé, gathered to film the Christmas special. It was part of the Judy Garland Show,...
- 12/10/2022
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
About six weeks ago, locals and visitors to the famed intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street saw one of the bare walls in the area begin to show some shapes and colors. Over on Instagram, posing at the same spot, Los Angeles urban pop artist Tristan Eaton wrote on July 17, “My dream wall is finally happening!”
On Aug. 25, the six-story mural, which adorns the south-facing side of the Aster club and hotel, had its official reveal in a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The mural was created with spray paint and executed in Eaton’s signature collage style, which mixes pop art and traditional techniques. It’s a salute to Hollywood groundbreakers such as Judy Garland and Sidney Poitier, whose likenesses are the largest figurative elements of the work. Garland’s daughter, Lorna Luft, and granddaughter, Vanessa Richards, were among the guests who attended the ribbon-cutting.
At the same time, Eaton told Variety,...
On Aug. 25, the six-story mural, which adorns the south-facing side of the Aster club and hotel, had its official reveal in a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The mural was created with spray paint and executed in Eaton’s signature collage style, which mixes pop art and traditional techniques. It’s a salute to Hollywood groundbreakers such as Judy Garland and Sidney Poitier, whose likenesses are the largest figurative elements of the work. Garland’s daughter, Lorna Luft, and granddaughter, Vanessa Richards, were among the guests who attended the ribbon-cutting.
At the same time, Eaton told Variety,...
- 8/31/2022
- by Lily Moayeri
- Variety Film + TV
Chicago – It was 100 years ago today – June 10th, 1922 – that Frances Gumm was born in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, but the world would soon know her as Judy Garland. The entertainer, who went from child star to adult fame, is honored by her daughter Lorna Luft.
Arguably, Judy Garland is one of the greatest movie stars and entertainers of her era. She was signed to a film contract by Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) in 1935 at the tender age of 13, after a career in vaudeville with her act known a the Gumm (later Garland) Sisters. Her singing talent was dubbed “The Little Girl with the Big Voice,” and she broke out with MGM in a big way, most notably in the Andy Hardy film series and “The Wizard of Oz” in 1939.
Judy Garland and Lorna Luft
Photo credit: CBS-tv/Facebook@LornaLuftOfficial
In the transition from child star to adult, Garland starred in a...
Arguably, Judy Garland is one of the greatest movie stars and entertainers of her era. She was signed to a film contract by Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) in 1935 at the tender age of 13, after a career in vaudeville with her act known a the Gumm (later Garland) Sisters. Her singing talent was dubbed “The Little Girl with the Big Voice,” and she broke out with MGM in a big way, most notably in the Andy Hardy film series and “The Wizard of Oz” in 1939.
Judy Garland and Lorna Luft
Photo credit: CBS-tv/Facebook@LornaLuftOfficial
In the transition from child star to adult, Garland starred in a...
- 6/10/2022
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Chicago – The Judy Garland Summer Centennial film series is on through July 30th at the Gene Siskel Film Center, and Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com will lead a discussion on her film “The Clock” on June 11th.
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of Judy Garland’s birth, he talked to her daughter Lorna Luft about the Jg film legacy.
Lorna Luft was born to Sid Luft and Judy Garland, and has created her own legacy with an expansive singing and acting career. She made her debut as a singer at age 11 on Judy Garland’s CBS-TV variety show in 1963, toured with her mother during the rest of the decade. She made her Broadway debut in 1971 in “Promises, Promises,” played Carnegie Hall in 1981 and toured with the hit show “They’re Playing Our Song” in the early 1980s. Also around that time she became a Pink Lady in the now...
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of Judy Garland’s birth, he talked to her daughter Lorna Luft about the Jg film legacy.
Lorna Luft was born to Sid Luft and Judy Garland, and has created her own legacy with an expansive singing and acting career. She made her debut as a singer at age 11 on Judy Garland’s CBS-TV variety show in 1963, toured with her mother during the rest of the decade. She made her Broadway debut in 1971 in “Promises, Promises,” played Carnegie Hall in 1981 and toured with the hit show “They’re Playing Our Song” in the early 1980s. Also around that time she became a Pink Lady in the now...
- 6/8/2022
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Exclusive: Clear Talent Group’s Founder Tim O’Brien has promoted Brianna Ancel to President of the bi-coastal talent agency, upping Jamie Harris to Vice President.
Ancel has headed up Ctg’s Adult Theatrical Department since its inception in 2003, and has served as Vice President since 2009. Her client list includes actors Richard Brooks (Law & Order), Judy Gold (Better Things), Brandee Evans (P-Valley), Kiowa Gordon (Dark Winds), Emma Pasarow (Along for the Ride), Eric Graise (Peacock’s Queer as Folk), Tre Hale (Platonic), Robert Longstreet (The Haunting of Hill House), Drake Rodger (The Winchesters) and Camron Jones (Panic).
Ancel in 2018 helped facilitate a strategic partnership with Producer Entertainment Group, a premiere management company representing drag queens and LGBTQ+ performers, working collaboratively as agents for talent including RuPaul’s Drag Race alums Ginger Minj, Manila Luzon, Jujubee, Lady Bunny and BenDeLaCreme, among others. The Talent Manager’s Association nominated her for the Seymour...
Ancel has headed up Ctg’s Adult Theatrical Department since its inception in 2003, and has served as Vice President since 2009. Her client list includes actors Richard Brooks (Law & Order), Judy Gold (Better Things), Brandee Evans (P-Valley), Kiowa Gordon (Dark Winds), Emma Pasarow (Along for the Ride), Eric Graise (Peacock’s Queer as Folk), Tre Hale (Platonic), Robert Longstreet (The Haunting of Hill House), Drake Rodger (The Winchesters) and Camron Jones (Panic).
Ancel in 2018 helped facilitate a strategic partnership with Producer Entertainment Group, a premiere management company representing drag queens and LGBTQ+ performers, working collaboratively as agents for talent including RuPaul’s Drag Race alums Ginger Minj, Manila Luzon, Jujubee, Lady Bunny and BenDeLaCreme, among others. The Talent Manager’s Association nominated her for the Seymour...
- 5/25/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Welcome to this week’s “Just for Variety”…
We’re just a couple days away from Liza Minnelli’s birthday, which is March 12. As I first told you, the Hollywood legend — and Variety cover star — will be feted that night with “Love Letter to Liza: A 75th Birthday Tribute Celebration,” a virtual extravaganza benefiting The Actors Fund. Close to 50 celebs are taking part, including Joel Grey, Lea DeLaria, Kristin Chenoweth, Melissa Manchester, Ben Vereen, Sandra Bernhard, Jonathan Groff, Michael Feinstein, Ute Lemper, Tony Hale, Nathan Lane, Neil Meron, Kathy Griffin and Minnelli’s sister Lorna Luft.
“The best email you’re ever going to get in your lifetime is Lily Tomlin sending you a video of her doing all her characters,” producer Daniel Nardicio says of the pre-recorded tributes. “She did all of them congratulating Liza.” Also on the bill is former “Seinfeld” star Jason Alexander, who appeared with Minnelli...
We’re just a couple days away from Liza Minnelli’s birthday, which is March 12. As I first told you, the Hollywood legend — and Variety cover star — will be feted that night with “Love Letter to Liza: A 75th Birthday Tribute Celebration,” a virtual extravaganza benefiting The Actors Fund. Close to 50 celebs are taking part, including Joel Grey, Lea DeLaria, Kristin Chenoweth, Melissa Manchester, Ben Vereen, Sandra Bernhard, Jonathan Groff, Michael Feinstein, Ute Lemper, Tony Hale, Nathan Lane, Neil Meron, Kathy Griffin and Minnelli’s sister Lorna Luft.
“The best email you’re ever going to get in your lifetime is Lily Tomlin sending you a video of her doing all her characters,” producer Daniel Nardicio says of the pre-recorded tributes. “She did all of them congratulating Liza.” Also on the bill is former “Seinfeld” star Jason Alexander, who appeared with Minnelli...
- 3/10/2021
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
This past spring, actor and comedian Drew Droege was performing his one-man show Happy Birthday Doug at the SoHo Playhouse in New York City, when it was cut short in March like the rest of live theater due to social distancing restrictions enforced to reduce harm during the Covid-19 pandemic. Now Droege (known to thousands of fans from his “Chloë” clips, Drunk History, Bob’s Burgers, RuPaul’s Aj and the Queen on Netflix) is thrilled to offer a recorded version of the performance filmed during quarantine on BroadwayHD from producer Michael Urie.
- 9/25/2020
- by Jerry Portwood
- Rollingstone.com
Jesse Eisenberg as “Marcel” in Jonathan Jakubowicz’s Resistance. Courtesy of IFC Films. An IFC Films Release.
Who knew legendary mime Marcel Marceau was a member of the French Resistance as a very young man? That startling and intriguing fact is the basis of Resistance, a well-made inspirational historical film which follows the young French-born Polish Jewish aspiring actor, as he is drawn into the fight against the Nazis in France in World War II.
The great strength of Resistance is its remarkable true-story basis, bolstered by a top-notch cast and high-quality production values. The film is more drama and biopic than historical thriller, although it has some suspenseful action sequences. Jesse Eisenberg stars as Marcel Marceau, who starts out life as Marcel Mangel, the son of a Polish-born Jewish butcher who resists his father’s efforts to draw him into the family butcher shop business in Strasbourg, then a...
Who knew legendary mime Marcel Marceau was a member of the French Resistance as a very young man? That startling and intriguing fact is the basis of Resistance, a well-made inspirational historical film which follows the young French-born Polish Jewish aspiring actor, as he is drawn into the fight against the Nazis in France in World War II.
The great strength of Resistance is its remarkable true-story basis, bolstered by a top-notch cast and high-quality production values. The film is more drama and biopic than historical thriller, although it has some suspenseful action sequences. Jesse Eisenberg stars as Marcel Marceau, who starts out life as Marcel Mangel, the son of a Polish-born Jewish butcher who resists his father’s efforts to draw him into the family butcher shop business in Strasbourg, then a...
- 3/27/2020
- by Cate Marquis
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
In this episode, Ben and Daniel talk to Tony-nominated director and actor Charles Busch about the soundtrack to the 1983 film 'Yentl.' They also discuss Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler, Linda Lavin, Julie Halston, Patrick Dennis, 'Mame,' Michael Tanner, Tom Judson, Dick Gallagher, Lucie Arnaz, Lorna Luft, Michael Vollbracht, 'The Women,' Carl Andress, Lynne Meadow, Tony Roberts, Paul Newman, Sasha Velour, Bianca Del Rio, Stephen Sondheim, and Michele Lee. Charles talks about his career in and out of drag, as well as the difference between downtown and mainstream theater. Charles is the author of a number of fabulous plays, many of which he starred in, including 'Vampire Lesbians of Sodom,' 'Psycho Beach Party,' and his most recent, 'The Confession of Lily Dare.' His 2000 hit play, 'The Tale of the Allergist's Wife,' ran on Broadway and was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Play.
- 3/23/2020
- by Ben Rimalower
- BroadwayWorld.com
Renée Zellweger won best actress at the 92nd Academy Awards for her portrayal of Hollywood icon Judy Garland in “Judy.”
The actress took the stage celebrating heroes, and her hero Garland. “This past year of conversations celebrating Judy Garland across generations and across cultures has been a really cool reminder that our heroes unite us,” Zellweger said. “The best among us, who inspire us to find the best in ourselves, when they unite us, when we look to our heroes, we agree, you know? And that matters.”
She continued to list several famous figures of inspiration, including Neil Armstrong, Sally Ride, Venus and Serena Williams, Selena, Bob Dylan, Martin Scorsese, Fred Rogers and Harriet Tubman.
“Judy Garland did not receive this honor in her time,” the actress continued. “I am certain that this moment is an extension of the celebration of her legacy that began on our film set and...
The actress took the stage celebrating heroes, and her hero Garland. “This past year of conversations celebrating Judy Garland across generations and across cultures has been a really cool reminder that our heroes unite us,” Zellweger said. “The best among us, who inspire us to find the best in ourselves, when they unite us, when we look to our heroes, we agree, you know? And that matters.”
She continued to list several famous figures of inspiration, including Neil Armstrong, Sally Ride, Venus and Serena Williams, Selena, Bob Dylan, Martin Scorsese, Fred Rogers and Harriet Tubman.
“Judy Garland did not receive this honor in her time,” the actress continued. “I am certain that this moment is an extension of the celebration of her legacy that began on our film set and...
- 2/10/2020
- by Alex Stedman
- Variety Film + TV
Liza Minnelli feels her mom Judy Garland is still supporting her, more than 50 years after the legendary star’s death.
“When I call on her, she’s there, and I call on her a lot,” Minnelli said in a recent interview with Variety. “She’ll say, ‘Ignore it’ a lot. She’ll say, ‘It’s one opinion. Who cares? Just keep going.’”
Minnelli said she “definitely” feels Garland’s presence today. The actress and singer, 73, reflected on her early days in show business and her mother’s desire to protect her and her siblings “from any of the stuff that other people said,...
“When I call on her, she’s there, and I call on her a lot,” Minnelli said in a recent interview with Variety. “She’ll say, ‘Ignore it’ a lot. She’ll say, ‘It’s one opinion. Who cares? Just keep going.’”
Minnelli said she “definitely” feels Garland’s presence today. The actress and singer, 73, reflected on her early days in show business and her mother’s desire to protect her and her siblings “from any of the stuff that other people said,...
- 2/5/2020
- by Ally Mauch
- PEOPLE.com
As BroadwayWorld reported last month, Tony Award winning composer and lyricist Jerry Herman passed away at 88 years old. Just yesterday, Broadway united to remember the legend.Michael Feinstein produced a memorial eventat the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, featuring performances byKristin Chenoweth, Harvey Fierstein, Sutton Foster, Kelli O'Hara, Bernadette Peters, Betty Buckley, Klea Blackhurst, Alice Borden, Jane Dorian, Lewis Stadlen, Lorna Luft, Ron Raines, Jason Graae, Marilyn Maye, Jeremy Jordan, Don Pippin, Lee Roy Reams, and Debbie Gravitte, with special video tributes from Angela Lansburyand Paul McCartney. Marc Bruni directed the event with Larry Blank serving as music director.
- 2/4/2020
- by BWW News Desk
- BroadwayWorld.com
Neither Liza Minnelli nor her sister, Lorna Luft, plans to see “Judy,” a film that’s based on their mother Judy Garland’s final months and stars Oscar front-runner Renée Zellweger.
The film’s director, Rupert Goold, understands their hesitancy. “I’m not sure I’d want to see a movie about my mother,” he says. “Not that I don’t love my mother or love filmmaking but because it’s a very personal relationship. I hope if they do get to see it, they’ll sense … the celebration and the love we have for her as a person.”
Ever since the film premiered at Telluride, Zellweger and Goold have maintained that the movie is a celebration of Garland, even if it does look at the tragic final chapter of her life. The film focuses on her long-term addiction to alcohol and pills while battling ex-husband Sid Luft for custody of their children,...
The film’s director, Rupert Goold, understands their hesitancy. “I’m not sure I’d want to see a movie about my mother,” he says. “Not that I don’t love my mother or love filmmaking but because it’s a very personal relationship. I hope if they do get to see it, they’ll sense … the celebration and the love we have for her as a person.”
Ever since the film premiered at Telluride, Zellweger and Goold have maintained that the movie is a celebration of Garland, even if it does look at the tragic final chapter of her life. The film focuses on her long-term addiction to alcohol and pills while battling ex-husband Sid Luft for custody of their children,...
- 2/4/2020
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
"Judy" is the Brit-produced biographical drama feature, following the life of singer, actress 'Judy Garland' circa 1969, starring Renée Zellweger, directed by Rupert Goold, adapting the 'Tony'-nominated West End and Broadway play "End of the Rainbow" by Peter Quilter:
"...'Judy Garland', the child star who played 'Dorothy' from "The Wizard Of Oz', who became alcohol and drug-addicted throughout her long career, arrives in London, UK in 1969 for a five-week run of sell-out concerts..."
Cast also includes Darci Shaw as young 'Judy Garland', Rufus Sewell as 'Sidney Luft', Michael Gambon as 'Bernard Delfont', Finn Wittrock as 'Mickey Deans', Jessie Buckley as 'Rosalyn Wilder', Bella Ramsey as 'Lorna Luft', Royce Pierreson as 'Burt', Arthur McBain as 'Askith', John Dagleish as 'Lonnie Donegan', Gemma-Leah Devereux as 'Liza Minnelli' and David Rubin as 'Noel'.
Click the images to enlarge...
"...'Judy Garland', the child star who played 'Dorothy' from "The Wizard Of Oz', who became alcohol and drug-addicted throughout her long career, arrives in London, UK in 1969 for a five-week run of sell-out concerts..."
Cast also includes Darci Shaw as young 'Judy Garland', Rufus Sewell as 'Sidney Luft', Michael Gambon as 'Bernard Delfont', Finn Wittrock as 'Mickey Deans', Jessie Buckley as 'Rosalyn Wilder', Bella Ramsey as 'Lorna Luft', Royce Pierreson as 'Burt', Arthur McBain as 'Askith', John Dagleish as 'Lonnie Donegan', Gemma-Leah Devereux as 'Liza Minnelli' and David Rubin as 'Noel'.
Click the images to enlarge...
- 1/20/2020
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Perhaps Renee Zellweger will have better luck than Judy Garland did at the Academy Awards. Zellweger, who won supporting actress for 2003’s “Cold Mountain,” is the favorite to take home the Oscar next February for her haunting portrayal of the legendary star/singer in the acclaimed “Judy.”
Exactly 65 years ago, Garland was the front-runner to receive her first Academy Award for her powerhouse performance in “A Star is Born,” George Cukor‘s lavish musical version of the 1937 William Wellman classic tale of a matinee idol on the descent who marries an ingenue on the rise.
When the star-studded premiere at the Pantages Theatre aired live on TV on Sept. 29, 1954, star after star told host Jack Carson, who also appears in the film, that Garland was a shoo-in for Oscar gold. Dean Martin told the crowd Garland would probably take home every accolade and Lucille Ball echoed his sentiments.
Reviewers loved...
Exactly 65 years ago, Garland was the front-runner to receive her first Academy Award for her powerhouse performance in “A Star is Born,” George Cukor‘s lavish musical version of the 1937 William Wellman classic tale of a matinee idol on the descent who marries an ingenue on the rise.
When the star-studded premiere at the Pantages Theatre aired live on TV on Sept. 29, 1954, star after star told host Jack Carson, who also appears in the film, that Garland was a shoo-in for Oscar gold. Dean Martin told the crowd Garland would probably take home every accolade and Lucille Ball echoed his sentiments.
Reviewers loved...
- 11/22/2019
- by Susan King
- Gold Derby
There are three Judy Garland authorities that Roadside Attractions would most obviously want on board their Oscar campaign for “Judy” and its star, Renee Zellweger: Liza Minnelli, Lorna Luft and Rufus Wainwright.
Granted, unlike Garland’s two daughters, Wainwright isn’t a relative. But his 2007 album, “Rufus Does Judy at Carnegie Hall,” is widely respected as the ultimate tribute to Garland and her legendary 1961 concert at the same historic theater in New York City, which some industry veterans of a certain age still tout it as “the greatest night in show business history.” (Luft gave his fandom her endorsement by appearing with Wainwright and the orchestra to sing “After You’re Gone” at his Carnegie Hall tribute.)
“I have a certain stake in it, I suppose,” Wainwright said — as something of an understatement — of his connection to Garland’s legacy, when Variety caught up with him at the 50th anniversary...
Granted, unlike Garland’s two daughters, Wainwright isn’t a relative. But his 2007 album, “Rufus Does Judy at Carnegie Hall,” is widely respected as the ultimate tribute to Garland and her legendary 1961 concert at the same historic theater in New York City, which some industry veterans of a certain age still tout it as “the greatest night in show business history.” (Luft gave his fandom her endorsement by appearing with Wainwright and the orchestra to sing “After You’re Gone” at his Carnegie Hall tribute.)
“I have a certain stake in it, I suppose,” Wainwright said — as something of an understatement — of his connection to Garland’s legacy, when Variety caught up with him at the 50th anniversary...
- 9/30/2019
- by James Patrick Herman
- Variety Film + TV
Renée Zellweger may be earning praise for her portrayal of Judy Garland in Judy, but the real-life story behind the Wizard of Oz star is much more tragic.
Garland dominated movie screens with roles in The Wizard of Oz, A Star Is Born, Meet Me in St. Louis and the Easter Parade, but the star struggled with substance abuse and body image issues since her breakout at the age of 16.
The new film on her life, Judy, follows Garland from 1968 to 1969 as she performs a series of sold-out concerts in London while struggling to cope with depression and her addictions.
Garland dominated movie screens with roles in The Wizard of Oz, A Star Is Born, Meet Me in St. Louis and the Easter Parade, but the star struggled with substance abuse and body image issues since her breakout at the age of 16.
The new film on her life, Judy, follows Garland from 1968 to 1969 as she performs a series of sold-out concerts in London while struggling to cope with depression and her addictions.
- 9/27/2019
- by Alexia Fernandez
- PEOPLE.com
Contrary to the biopic “Judy,” the first encounter between Judy Garland and her future husband Mickey Deans was in no way a “meet-cute” at a party. In fact, their first encounter was decidedly unglamorous.
As the film tells it, Garland (played by Renee Zellwegger) was invited to a party by her daughter Liza Minnelli (Gemma-Leah Devereux), who, by that time, had already wowed audiences in a chip-off-the-old-block way with a Tony-winning performance in “Flora the Red Menace.” We see Garland and Deans (Finn Wittrock) lock eyes across the crowded room, his approach, flirtation, flying sparks, and so on.
But the truth is, there was no happenin’ Hollywood party, no instant chemistry, not even a magical moment when their eyes met. The truth: They first met when he delivered drugs to her hotel room in the middle of the night.
Also Read: 'Judy' Film Review: Renee Zellweger Gets to...
As the film tells it, Garland (played by Renee Zellwegger) was invited to a party by her daughter Liza Minnelli (Gemma-Leah Devereux), who, by that time, had already wowed audiences in a chip-off-the-old-block way with a Tony-winning performance in “Flora the Red Menace.” We see Garland and Deans (Finn Wittrock) lock eyes across the crowded room, his approach, flirtation, flying sparks, and so on.
But the truth is, there was no happenin’ Hollywood party, no instant chemistry, not even a magical moment when their eyes met. The truth: They first met when he delivered drugs to her hotel room in the middle of the night.
Also Read: 'Judy' Film Review: Renee Zellweger Gets to...
- 9/27/2019
- by Rosemary Rossi
- The Wrap
Renée Zellweger is back!
The actress, 50, received two standing ovations on Tuesday night after the premiere of her film Judy at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Zellweger brushed away tears as she stood onstage next to her costars and director Rupert Goold, telling the audience, “Ok, quit! You’re messing up my makeup.”
The Oscar-winning actress stars as Judy Garland near the end of her life when the famed Wizard of Oz star arrived in London to perform sold-out shows at the Talk of the Town nightclub.
While there, Garland meets and falls in love with her soon-to-be-fifth husband Mickey Deans.
The actress, 50, received two standing ovations on Tuesday night after the premiere of her film Judy at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Zellweger brushed away tears as she stood onstage next to her costars and director Rupert Goold, telling the audience, “Ok, quit! You’re messing up my makeup.”
The Oscar-winning actress stars as Judy Garland near the end of her life when the famed Wizard of Oz star arrived in London to perform sold-out shows at the Talk of the Town nightclub.
While there, Garland meets and falls in love with her soon-to-be-fifth husband Mickey Deans.
- 9/11/2019
- by Alexia Fernandez
- PEOPLE.com
Renée Zellweger transforms into Judy Garland in the upcoming Judy — and People has a first look at her in action as the legendary performer.
The film chronicles Garland’s journey to London in the winter of 1968 for a series of sold-out concerts she performed despite her exhaustion and deteriorating health. The Wizard of Oz star died in London in 1969 of an accidental barbiturate overdose just months after the tour ended. She was 47.
People’s exclusive scene from the movie shows a preview of the downfall to come, with a shaky Judy walking around backstage before admitting that she doesn’t...
The film chronicles Garland’s journey to London in the winter of 1968 for a series of sold-out concerts she performed despite her exhaustion and deteriorating health. The Wizard of Oz star died in London in 1969 of an accidental barbiturate overdose just months after the tour ended. She was 47.
People’s exclusive scene from the movie shows a preview of the downfall to come, with a shaky Judy walking around backstage before admitting that she doesn’t...
- 9/3/2019
- by Ale Russian
- PEOPLE.com
Renée Zellweger and Sam Smith are teaming up for a new song!
The actress, who is playing Judy Garland in the upcoming biopic Judy, recorded a duet with Smith for the film’s soundtrack. The pair joins forces for a cover of Garland’s song “Get Happy,” while Zellweger also sings “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” with Rufus Wainwright in another track on the album.
“When I was 17 years old I did a project on Judy Garland for my Film Studies A-Level,” Smith — who previously won an Oscar for his song featured in the 2015 James Bond movie Spectre — said of the partnership.
The actress, who is playing Judy Garland in the upcoming biopic Judy, recorded a duet with Smith for the film’s soundtrack. The pair joins forces for a cover of Garland’s song “Get Happy,” while Zellweger also sings “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” with Rufus Wainwright in another track on the album.
“When I was 17 years old I did a project on Judy Garland for my Film Studies A-Level,” Smith — who previously won an Oscar for his song featured in the 2015 James Bond movie Spectre — said of the partnership.
- 8/28/2019
- by Helen Murphy
- PEOPLE.com
"Judy" is the new Brit biographical drama feature, following the life of singer, actress 'Judy Garland' circa 1969, directed by Rupert Goold, adapting the 'Tony'-nominated West End and Broadway play "End of the Rainbow" by Peter Quilter, starring Oscar winner Renée Zellweger, opening theatrically September 27, 2019:
"...'Judy Garland', the child star who played 'Dorothy' from "The Wizard Of Oz', who became alcohol and drug-addicted throughout her long career, arrives in London, UK in 1969 for a five-week run of sell-out concerts..."
Cast also includes Darci Shaw as young 'Judy Garland', Rufus Sewell as 'Sidney Luft', Michael Gambon as 'Bernard Delfont', Finn Wittrock as 'Mickey Deans', Jessie Buckley as 'Rosalyn Wilder', Bella Ramsey as 'Lorna Luft', Royce Pierreson as 'Burt', Arthur McBain as 'Askith', John Dagleish as 'Lonnie Donegan', Gemma-Leah Devereux as 'Liza Minnelli' and David Rubin as 'Noel'.
"...'Judy Garland', the child star who played 'Dorothy' from "The Wizard Of Oz', who became alcohol and drug-addicted throughout her long career, arrives in London, UK in 1969 for a five-week run of sell-out concerts..."
Cast also includes Darci Shaw as young 'Judy Garland', Rufus Sewell as 'Sidney Luft', Michael Gambon as 'Bernard Delfont', Finn Wittrock as 'Mickey Deans', Jessie Buckley as 'Rosalyn Wilder', Bella Ramsey as 'Lorna Luft', Royce Pierreson as 'Burt', Arthur McBain as 'Askith', John Dagleish as 'Lonnie Donegan', Gemma-Leah Devereux as 'Liza Minnelli' and David Rubin as 'Noel'.
- 7/8/2019
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Tony Sokol Jul 8, 2019
The official trailer for the upcoming Judy film shows Renée Zellweger in what might be her next Oscar nominated role.
The first official trailer for the upcoming biopic Judy looks like it might pull an Academy Award for Renée Zellweger, who channels the The Wizard Of Oz star at the close of her career.
"Winter 1968 and showbiz legend Judy Garland arrives in Swinging London to perform a five-week sold-out run at The Talk of the Town," reads the official synopsis. "It is 30 years since she shot to global stardom in The Wizard of Oz, but if her voice has weakened, its dramatic intensity has only grown. As she prepares for the show, battles with management, charms musicians and reminisces with friends and adoring fans, her wit and warmth shine through. Even her dreams of love seem undimmed as she embarks on a whirlwind romance with Mickey Deans,...
The official trailer for the upcoming Judy film shows Renée Zellweger in what might be her next Oscar nominated role.
The first official trailer for the upcoming biopic Judy looks like it might pull an Academy Award for Renée Zellweger, who channels the The Wizard Of Oz star at the close of her career.
"Winter 1968 and showbiz legend Judy Garland arrives in Swinging London to perform a five-week sold-out run at The Talk of the Town," reads the official synopsis. "It is 30 years since she shot to global stardom in The Wizard of Oz, but if her voice has weakened, its dramatic intensity has only grown. As she prepares for the show, battles with management, charms musicians and reminisces with friends and adoring fans, her wit and warmth shine through. Even her dreams of love seem undimmed as she embarks on a whirlwind romance with Mickey Deans,...
- 7/8/2019
- Den of Geek
Judy Garland is over the rainbow and across the pond yearning to be reunited with her children in a new trailer for the upcoming biopic Judy.
The film, which stars Renée Zellweger as the legendary performer, chronicles Garland’s journey to London in the winter of 1968 for a series of sold-out concerts she performed despite her exhaustion and deteriorating health. The Wizard of Oz star died in London in 1969 of an accidental barbiturate overdose just months after the tour ended. She was 47.
The trailer kicks off with daughter Lorna Luft (Bella Ramsey) pleading with her mother as she downs pills...
The film, which stars Renée Zellweger as the legendary performer, chronicles Garland’s journey to London in the winter of 1968 for a series of sold-out concerts she performed despite her exhaustion and deteriorating health. The Wizard of Oz star died in London in 1969 of an accidental barbiturate overdose just months after the tour ended. She was 47.
The trailer kicks off with daughter Lorna Luft (Bella Ramsey) pleading with her mother as she downs pills...
- 7/8/2019
- by Rachel DeSantis
- PEOPLE.com
Renée Zellweger’s big 2019 started with a juicy role in Netflix’s guilty pleasure “What/If” and is set to continue with a starring role as Judy Garland in the upcoming biographical drama “Judy,” her first major awards vehicle in over a decade. The film marks the directorial debut of English theater director Rupert Goold and is an adaptation of Peter Quilter’s musical “End of the Rainbow.” The production played on Broadway and the West End and earned multiple Olivier and Tony Award nominations.
“Judy” focuses on the final months of Judy Garland’s life before her death in 1969. The story takes place in London as the iconic singer and actress prepares for her five-week sold-out concert run at The Talk of the Town. As she preps for the show, Garland battles with management, charms musicians, and reminisces with friends and adoring fans. Garland even embarks on a whirlwind romance with Mickey Deans,...
“Judy” focuses on the final months of Judy Garland’s life before her death in 1969. The story takes place in London as the iconic singer and actress prepares for her five-week sold-out concert run at The Talk of the Town. As she preps for the show, Garland battles with management, charms musicians, and reminisces with friends and adoring fans. Garland even embarks on a whirlwind romance with Mickey Deans,...
- 7/8/2019
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
Renée Zellweger is unrecognizable as screen legend Judy Garland in the first trailer for the anticipated biopic Judy.
The 50-year-old star stars as Garland as she arrives in London in the winter of 1968 for a series of sold-out concerts despite her exhaustion and deteriorating health. Garland died of an accidental barbiturate overdose months after the tour ended in June 1969 in London. She was 47.
The film is an adaptation of the Tony Award-nominated Broadway play End of the Rainbow by Peter Quilter.
To prepare for the role, the Oscar winner took music lessons, studied choreography and read up about the actress and singer,...
The 50-year-old star stars as Garland as she arrives in London in the winter of 1968 for a series of sold-out concerts despite her exhaustion and deteriorating health. Garland died of an accidental barbiturate overdose months after the tour ended in June 1969 in London. She was 47.
The film is an adaptation of the Tony Award-nominated Broadway play End of the Rainbow by Peter Quilter.
To prepare for the role, the Oscar winner took music lessons, studied choreography and read up about the actress and singer,...
- 5/10/2019
- by Alexia Fernandez
- PEOPLE.com
To portray Judy Garland in the upcoming biopic, Judy, Renée Zellweger read everything she could about the legendary singer and actress.
In doing so, the Oscar winner, 50, tells People she gained a great amount of respect for Garland who shot to fame in 1939 when she played Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz but struggled later in life.
For more on Zellweger, pick up this week’s issue of People on newsstands Friday.
Garland, who was married five times and had three children (Liza Minnelli and Lorna and Joey Luft) died from an accidental drug overdose at age 47. The biopic, out Sept.
In doing so, the Oscar winner, 50, tells People she gained a great amount of respect for Garland who shot to fame in 1939 when she played Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz but struggled later in life.
For more on Zellweger, pick up this week’s issue of People on newsstands Friday.
Garland, who was married five times and had three children (Liza Minnelli and Lorna and Joey Luft) died from an accidental drug overdose at age 47. The biopic, out Sept.
- 5/8/2019
- by Mia McNiece
- PEOPLE.com
For her upcoming movie Judy, Renée Zellweger, 50, completely transforms herself into Hollywood legend Judy Garland and People has an exclusive first look.
To prepare for the role, the Oscar winner took music lessons, studied choreography and read up about the actress and singer, who shot to fame in 1939 when she played Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz but struggled later in life.
For more on Zellweger, pick up this week’s issue of People on newsstands Friday.
The Bridget Jones star spent two hours a day in the makeup chair getting prosthetics, contact lenses and wigs applied.
“It was an exercise in Zen for sure,...
To prepare for the role, the Oscar winner took music lessons, studied choreography and read up about the actress and singer, who shot to fame in 1939 when she played Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz but struggled later in life.
For more on Zellweger, pick up this week’s issue of People on newsstands Friday.
The Bridget Jones star spent two hours a day in the makeup chair getting prosthetics, contact lenses and wigs applied.
“It was an exercise in Zen for sure,...
- 5/8/2019
- by Mia McNiece
- PEOPLE.com
The 27th annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party hosted by Sir Elton John and David Furnish raised over $6.3 million for the global effort to end AIDS.
Elton John and Taron Egerton perform onstage during the 27th annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party
Credit/Copyright: Rich Fury/Getty Images for Ejaf
The gala, which took place on Sunday, February 24, at West Hollywood Park in Los Angeles, was generously supported by Presenting Sponsors IMDb and Neuro Drinks.
The Foundation welcomed Sir Elton John and David Furnish, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Mädchen Amick, Patricia Arquette, Alina Baikova, Jamie Bell, Thora Birch, Chad Buchanan, Candace Bushnell, Charlie Carver, Kristin Chenoweth, Erika Christensen, Chris Colfer, Chace Crawford, Terry Crews, Kaitlyn Dever, Taron Egerton, Dexter Fletcher, Peter Fonda, Isabeli Fontana, Georgia Fowler, Bryan Fuller, Toni Garrn, Willie Garson, Jeff Gum, Tiffany Haddish, Harry Hamlin, Marcia Gay Harden, Colton Haynes, Paris Hilton, Emile Hirsch,...
Elton John and Taron Egerton perform onstage during the 27th annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party
Credit/Copyright: Rich Fury/Getty Images for Ejaf
The gala, which took place on Sunday, February 24, at West Hollywood Park in Los Angeles, was generously supported by Presenting Sponsors IMDb and Neuro Drinks.
The Foundation welcomed Sir Elton John and David Furnish, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Mädchen Amick, Patricia Arquette, Alina Baikova, Jamie Bell, Thora Birch, Chad Buchanan, Candace Bushnell, Charlie Carver, Kristin Chenoweth, Erika Christensen, Chris Colfer, Chace Crawford, Terry Crews, Kaitlyn Dever, Taron Egerton, Dexter Fletcher, Peter Fonda, Isabeli Fontana, Georgia Fowler, Bryan Fuller, Toni Garrn, Willie Garson, Jeff Gum, Tiffany Haddish, Harry Hamlin, Marcia Gay Harden, Colton Haynes, Paris Hilton, Emile Hirsch,...
- 3/4/2019
- Look to the Stars
Yes, you could spend your holiday in the company of family and friends. But wouldn’t you rather curl up with a new book centered on cinema? There are new options aplenty, but let’s start with the latest from one of the most insightful, compelling voices we have: the great Karina Longworth.
Seduction: Sex, Lies, and Stardom in Howard Hughes’s Hollywood by Karina Longworth (Custom House)
Is there more to say about Howard Hughes after decades of biographies and films? Indeed, and the latest from Longworth, the host of the essential podcast You Must Remember This, is evidence. The focus in Seduction is not only Hughes himself, but the many women in the mega-tycoon’s orbit. These include household names like Katharine Hepburn but also figures like silent star Billie Dove and Mighty Joe Young star Terry Moore. Longworth brings these women to vivid life, and captures the absurdity of Hughes’s universe.
Seduction: Sex, Lies, and Stardom in Howard Hughes’s Hollywood by Karina Longworth (Custom House)
Is there more to say about Howard Hughes after decades of biographies and films? Indeed, and the latest from Longworth, the host of the essential podcast You Must Remember This, is evidence. The focus in Seduction is not only Hughes himself, but the many women in the mega-tycoon’s orbit. These include household names like Katharine Hepburn but also figures like silent star Billie Dove and Mighty Joe Young star Terry Moore. Longworth brings these women to vivid life, and captures the absurdity of Hughes’s universe.
- 12/10/2018
- by Christopher Schobert
- The Film Stage
The most influential movie has officially been named.
Researchers at the University of Turin in Italy have given the title to Wizard of Oz after studying more than 47,000 movies, according to Yahoo! The movie was crowned the winner after findings showed it had the most references made to it in other movies, and the most spin-offs.
According to the study, Oz beat Star Wars and Psycho, which came in second and third, as well as fourth and fifth place finishers King Kong and 2001: A Space Odyssey.
“We propose an alternative method to box office takings, which are affected by...
Researchers at the University of Turin in Italy have given the title to Wizard of Oz after studying more than 47,000 movies, according to Yahoo! The movie was crowned the winner after findings showed it had the most references made to it in other movies, and the most spin-offs.
According to the study, Oz beat Star Wars and Psycho, which came in second and third, as well as fourth and fifth place finishers King Kong and 2001: A Space Odyssey.
“We propose an alternative method to box office takings, which are affected by...
- 11/30/2018
- by Ale Russian
- PEOPLE.com
"The Wizard of Oz has great music and amazing chemistry among its cast. It's a perfect storm, no pun intended," William Stillman, co-author of the new book The Road to Oz exclusively told Closer Weekly — in the magazine's latest issue, on newsstands now — of the cinematic masterpiece. What fans might not know, he hinted, are behind-the-scenes trials and tribulations that went on during the making of the 1939 classic. Stillman and his writing partner, Jay Scarfone, cover all the backstage drama, starting with the fact that Judy Garland almost lost the part of Dorothy to Shirley Temple, who much more closely resembled the character L. Frank Baum described in his 1900 kids' novel. When Shirley's studio refused to let her out of her contract to star in the MGM vehicle, Judy secured the role, despite being older than Dorothy was originally written to be. (Photo Credit: Getty Images) Then the 16-year-old had...
- 9/27/2018
- by Closer Staff
- Closer Weekly
The late Judy Garland's daughter Lorna Luft couldn't be happier about the upcoming Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga A Star Is Born remake. In fact, after reading the reviews, she was "jumping up and down with excitement," she told People. "They’ve picked up the torch of one of the greatest love stories ever told on film and brought it to a new generation." In her new book, A Star is Born, Judy Garland and the Film That Got Away, the 65-year-old reveals how the original movie's themes of stardom and addiction affected her mother — who starred in the 1976 version — in real life. "The film’s story and its underlying messages about fame hit too close to home," she writes in the book. (Photo Credit: Getty Images) After rising to fame on The Wizard of Oz, at the time, Judy thought A Star Is Born would kick off her stardom again,...
- 9/27/2018
- by Samantha Faragalli
- Closer Weekly
Liza Minnelli is not over the rainbow about the upcoming biopic about her mother, Judy Garland.
The Oscar winner, 72, took to Facebook on Thursday to make clear that she is not involved with the film, and to deny a report that she had met with Renée Zellweger, who is starring as Garland in the film. (That report has since been removed).
“I have never met nor spoken to Renee Zellweger… I don’t know how these stories get started, but I do not approve nor sanction the upcoming film about Judy Garland in any way. Any reports to the contrary are 100% Fiction,...
The Oscar winner, 72, took to Facebook on Thursday to make clear that she is not involved with the film, and to deny a report that she had met with Renée Zellweger, who is starring as Garland in the film. (That report has since been removed).
“I have never met nor spoken to Renee Zellweger… I don’t know how these stories get started, but I do not approve nor sanction the upcoming film about Judy Garland in any way. Any reports to the contrary are 100% Fiction,...
- 6/14/2018
- by Mike Miller
- PEOPLE.com
Everyone yearns for their mom when they're sick, and Liza Minnelli's 1948 film for comfort after she had to cancel a March 30 Las Vegas concert with Michael Feinstein due to a viral infection. "Liza was more upset about backing out of the show than she was about being sick," an insider tells Closer. Her love for the stage is so strong that she's fighting to get back to it as soon as she can. "She's the Energizer bunny," brother Joey Luft, 63, assures Closer of Liza's resilience. (Photo Credit: Getty Images) "She's had every imaginable surgery — both knees, hips, back. She's a trouper, and I'm sure she'll battle this and be Ok," he added. Joey, the son of Judy and Sid Luft, says he's checking up on Liza regularly while also touching base with his other sister, Lorna Luft, 65. "She collapsed after doing a show in London and they found a brain tumor,...
- 4/11/2018
- by Closer Staff
- Closer Weekly
Actress Hilary Swank recently returned to the limelight after a three-year Hollywood hiatus — and just revealed that she took a break from acting for a very good reason. During a Tuesday, March 20 appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the 43-year-old star opened up about her father, Stephen Swank, undergoing a life-saving lung transplant and provided fans with an update on her dad's health today. "He's great, thank you for asking. For those of you who don't know, my dad got a lung transplant. It's the hardest surgery a person can undergo and I thank all the people that make themselves a donor, it saves lives," Hilary told host Stephen Colbert during their sit-down. "They had given him a short time to live if he didn't get a lung transplant and thankfully he got one and he's alive and thriving and well." A post shared by Hilary Swank (@hilaryswank...
- 3/21/2018
- by Julia Birkinbine
- Closer Weekly
Renée Zellweger is known for her ability to shape-shift for different roles, but her latest transformation is worth a double-take.
A first look photo from Judy, a biopic about Judy Garland, shows the actress completely transformed into the screen legend.
In the shot, Zellweger channels the Wizard of Oz star and renowned singer in a black dress with floral details and dark locks. Zellweger — who won an Oscar for her work in Cold Mountain — gazes upwards as she sings into a microphone.
According to Variety, the biopic by Pathé and Calamity Films will follow Garland’s final sold-out concerts in...
A first look photo from Judy, a biopic about Judy Garland, shows the actress completely transformed into the screen legend.
In the shot, Zellweger channels the Wizard of Oz star and renowned singer in a black dress with floral details and dark locks. Zellweger — who won an Oscar for her work in Cold Mountain — gazes upwards as she sings into a microphone.
According to Variety, the biopic by Pathé and Calamity Films will follow Garland’s final sold-out concerts in...
- 3/19/2018
- by Stephanie Petit
- PEOPLE.com
We're so sorry to hear this. Singer Lorna Luft, the youngest daughter of late Hollywood icon Judy Garland, has been diagnosed with a brain tumor after collapsing backstage during one of her concerts. According to Lorna's rep, Victoria Varela, the 65-year-old star fell ill on Friday, March 9 in the middle of her show at London’s Pizza Express Jazz Club and was immediately rushed to the hospital by her husband, Colin Freeman. Varela told People that Colin — whom Lorna married in 1996 — was already worried about his wife after she was "forgetting lyrics and parts of her monologue" during the concert. After Lorna was admitted to the hospital, she was initially diagnosed with a brain tumor, though Varela said more information pertaining to the singer's health will come as she undergoes further medical testing. Lorna performing in 2011. (Photo Credit: Getty Images) Lorna is the only daughter of the late Judy and Hollywood producer Sid Luft.
- 3/12/2018
- by Julia Birkinbine
- Closer Weekly
Singer Lorna Luft, the daughter of Judy Garland and half-sister of Liza Minnelli (above right), has been diagnosed with a brain tumor after she collapsed backstage at a concert in London, Associated Press reported. The singer’s representative, Victoria Varela, told TheWrap’s via email that Luft, 65, collapsed backstage Friday night following the second of her four sold out shows at London’s iconic Pizza Express Jazz Club. Luft’s husband, Colin Freeman, had been concerned that she was forgetting lyrics and a monologue during her performance. She was rushed to London’s Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, where she was given an initial diagnosis of a...
- 3/11/2018
- by Itay Hod
- The Wrap
The 5th Avenue Theatre's new production of Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn is running now through December 31st This holiday season, Lorna Luft, the beloved performer and daughter of film and television icon Judy Garland, will star as Louise in 5th Avenue's Holiday Inn. Luft joins a phenomenal cast of local and national talent, including Eric Ankrim, Sarah Rose A. Davis, Matt Owen and Taryn Darr for a dazzling winter treat that is perfect for the whole family. 5th Avenue favorite Richard Gray will play Danny Reed. Caden Brauch and Kristoffer Holtan, will alternate the role of Charlie Winslow.
- 12/7/2017
- by BWW News Desk
- BroadwayWorld.com
Even though she’s widely considered to be the Queen of Dry Wit, sitting in the hotel room where we’re about to talk about her latest film Ingrid Goes West, there’s an unexpected innocence to Aubrey Plaza that makes her seem more like Sandy from Grease before the makeover. She’s wearing a dark baseball jacket over a lovely plaid dress in blush tones, and rather than welcoming me with a raised eyebrow, she smiles. I reach out my hand to her to say hello and apologize because it’s cold, she raises the eyebrow and explains, “I’m sorry too because my hand is warm.” And suddenly Sandy has given path to the sardonic Rizzo. Since her breakthrough in Parks & Recreation, Plaza has become one of the funniest people in the industry. Period. Few actors can accomplish so much using so little and making it seem so effortless,...
- 8/14/2017
- by Jose Solís
- The Film Stage
Author: James Kleinmann
It’s rare that a producer’s name becomes as familiar to the public as the stars of the films he or she makes, but in the late 1970s and ’80s, Allan Carr was a regular talk show guest and caftan wearing celebrity in his own right. A new fast paced, fascinating documentary by Emmy winner Jeffrey Schwarz (‘I Am Divine’, ‘Tab Hunter Confidential’) follows the highs and lows of Carr’s colourful career featuring interviews with those who knew him best.
‘The Fabulous Allan Carr’
Starting out in the entertainment industry as a talent booker for Hugh Hefner’s television show, Carr soon became a talent manager representing the likes of Ann-Margaret, Peter Sellers, Tony Curtis and Mama Cass Elliot. Following Carr’s legendary New York subway station premiere party for ‘Tommy’, he gained a reputation for being able to launch a movie with a splash.
It’s rare that a producer’s name becomes as familiar to the public as the stars of the films he or she makes, but in the late 1970s and ’80s, Allan Carr was a regular talk show guest and caftan wearing celebrity in his own right. A new fast paced, fascinating documentary by Emmy winner Jeffrey Schwarz (‘I Am Divine’, ‘Tab Hunter Confidential’) follows the highs and lows of Carr’s colourful career featuring interviews with those who knew him best.
‘The Fabulous Allan Carr’
Starting out in the entertainment industry as a talent booker for Hugh Hefner’s television show, Carr soon became a talent manager representing the likes of Ann-Margaret, Peter Sellers, Tony Curtis and Mama Cass Elliot. Following Carr’s legendary New York subway station premiere party for ‘Tommy’, he gained a reputation for being able to launch a movie with a splash.
- 7/21/2017
- by James Kleinmann
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
The daughter of screen legend Judy Garland inherited her singing and acting talent — as well as her battle with drug addiction.
Lorna Luft, whose parents were Garland and producer Sid Luft, sat down with Australia’s Studio 10 for an interview about growing up in a famous family, where her mother’s infamous troubles with addiction eventually led to her death in 1969.
“I do think my mother was a victim of the studio system,” she said. “But it also gave her the ability to channel her talent to all of us. It was a real double-edged sword.”
While the 64-year-old said...
Lorna Luft, whose parents were Garland and producer Sid Luft, sat down with Australia’s Studio 10 for an interview about growing up in a famous family, where her mother’s infamous troubles with addiction eventually led to her death in 1969.
“I do think my mother was a victim of the studio system,” she said. “But it also gave her the ability to channel her talent to all of us. It was a real double-edged sword.”
While the 64-year-old said...
- 6/22/2017
- by Stephanie Petit
- PEOPLE.com
Katey Sagal says her battle with drug and alcohol addiction began at a young age.
In her new memoir, Grace Notes: My Recollections, the Sons of Anarchy star recalls growing up in Hollywood and living near Judy Garland and her daughter, Lorna Luft, when she was 12. Sagal writes that she and Luft quickly became "neighborhood buddies," and claims in her book that both their mothers were abusing prescription pills.
Watch: The Weeknd Admits That Drugs Were a 'Crutch' for Him When Making Music
"Lorna’s mom had a lot of pills on her bedside table and slept past noon just like my mom," Sagal says. "We hung tight. And, of course, I thought everyone’s mom took a lot of pills."
At age 14, Sagal writes that she was prescribed diet pills, which she says "gave me a way to fix what ailed me -- just like my mom had with her pills for as long as I could...
In her new memoir, Grace Notes: My Recollections, the Sons of Anarchy star recalls growing up in Hollywood and living near Judy Garland and her daughter, Lorna Luft, when she was 12. Sagal writes that she and Luft quickly became "neighborhood buddies," and claims in her book that both their mothers were abusing prescription pills.
Watch: The Weeknd Admits That Drugs Were a 'Crutch' for Him When Making Music
"Lorna’s mom had a lot of pills on her bedside table and slept past noon just like my mom," Sagal says. "We hung tight. And, of course, I thought everyone’s mom took a lot of pills."
At age 14, Sagal writes that she was prescribed diet pills, which she says "gave me a way to fix what ailed me -- just like my mom had with her pills for as long as I could...
- 3/21/2017
- Entertainment Tonight
Katey Sagal writes in a new memoir that iconic actress Judy Garland‘s well-documented struggle with drug abuse – as well as her own mother’s – in part, set the stage for her personal battle with addiction, according to Page Six.
The Sons of Anarchy actress says in Grace Notes: My Recollections – out Tuesday – that she was friends with Garland’s daughter Lorna Luft during their youth, bonding over their mothers’ behaviors.
“When I was 12, we lived on the same block as Judy Garland,” Page Six says Sagal writes. “Her daughter Lorna Luft and I became neighborhood buddies. Lorna’s mom...
The Sons of Anarchy actress says in Grace Notes: My Recollections – out Tuesday – that she was friends with Garland’s daughter Lorna Luft during their youth, bonding over their mothers’ behaviors.
“When I was 12, we lived on the same block as Judy Garland,” Page Six says Sagal writes. “Her daughter Lorna Luft and I became neighborhood buddies. Lorna’s mom...
- 3/20/2017
- by Lindsay Kimble
- PEOPLE.com
Judy Garland’s remains have been moved from New York to Los Angeles. Liza Minelli, the actress’ daughter, requested the move. The reason was that there wasn’t enough space at the cemetery in New York for her children — Minnelli, 70, Lorna Luft, 64, and Joey Luft, 61 – to be buried next to her. Minnelli, […]
Source: uInterview
The post Judy Garland’s Remains Moved To Los Angeles appeared first on uInterview.
Source: uInterview
The post Judy Garland’s Remains Moved To Los Angeles appeared first on uInterview.
- 1/29/2017
- by Aleks Simeonova
- Uinterview
Her iconic character Dorothy set out to find happiness “Over the Rainbow” in The Wizard of Oz. But off-screen, Judy Garland‘s quest for peace was plagued by insecurity, depression and drug abuse.
By her side throughout the young star’s life were her five husbands, who each witnessed her struggle with her inner demons.
Sadly, love couldn’t save Garland, who died in 1969 from a barbiturate overdose. She was 47.
Here, the stories behind her marriages and the men in Garland’s life.
David Rose (1941–1944)
David Rose was already a successful composer and orchestra leader when he first met Garland...
By her side throughout the young star’s life were her five husbands, who each witnessed her struggle with her inner demons.
Sadly, love couldn’t save Garland, who died in 1969 from a barbiturate overdose. She was 47.
Here, the stories behind her marriages and the men in Garland’s life.
David Rose (1941–1944)
David Rose was already a successful composer and orchestra leader when he first met Garland...
- 1/28/2017
- by Dave Quinn
- PEOPLE.com
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