Renowned Death Hag
Pic of Liberace the casket salesman in The Loved One, I've used it as my avi. Back in the day when I worked at the big FL, my supervising embalmer told me of the tale of Liberace, with the scandal involving his death. I check Liberace's dc, thought my S.E. had embalmed him, but no, one of FL's current big wigs did the job.
[SIGPIC][/SIGPIC]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RsvGs...feature=colike
My own, personal, Dexter...
Not sure if this has been mentioned before but Liberace was really good friends with Diana Dors. He was Godfather to one of her sons and she was very defensive about him.
Also Jayne Mansfield had a role in The Loved One but her scenes didn't make it to the final cut. I needto look out for that film, it sounds interesting.
I never knew any of those facts. ThanksOriginally Posted by Hez
Renowned Death Hag
Liberace Museum closing after 31 years
The Liberace Museum, tucked into a strip mall of East Tropicana Avenue two and half miles from the Las Vegas Strip, will close on October 17th, after 31 years in business.
The announcement came on Friday, the week in which a performer known as Prince Poppycock moved to the America's Got Talent finals after performing in a red-white and blue shortpants outfit that was surely a tribute to Liberace's star-spangled hotpants, and the month in which Michael Douglas, who is set to portray the flamboyant showman in a biopic directed by Steven Soderburgh, began treatment for throat cancer.
, Chapter 38:
"...The papers would say it last snowed in Las Vegas in 1990. Wayne and I were in town for that last storm. We'd just arrived to shoot 'Vegas Week' material for A Current Affair. That was when Wayne got Maureen to dress up as a showgirl and I shot a piece on the Liberace Museum that we promoted as the discovery of the little known 'Mrs. Liberace.' The story was true. She was his sister-in-law
I shall die, but that is all that I shall do for Death; I am not on his pay-roll.
Edna St. Vincent Millay
No........... I never did see it. I wonder if in the future another one will open. He had lots of fans.
I wonder what will happen to all that stuff inside. Maybe they could have a huge garage sale! Any bids on those star-spangled hot pants?
I never will forget where I was when I heard he died, on the London subway. A drunk guy with no teeth sits next to me on the tube and tells me Liberace had died. You had to be there, but it was hilarious.
Renowned Death Hag
I was at a performance of Liberace's in 1976 at the Shrine Auditorium here in LA and he was wearing those very hot pants! They looked amazingly good on him. Seriously, they did!
As far as where all that stuff will go, the Liberace Foundation is planning on turning it into a traveling exhibition. That would make me very happy too, because I always wanted to see it in Vegas but never got the chance!
I always thought it was so sad how they made such a public spectacle of the fact that he died of AIDS. I guess it could have been a health issue in case someone transferred body fluids with him and didn't know he had AIDS, but at the time it seemed like an old-fashioned witch hunt.
Any day above ground is a good day.
Renowned Death Hag
When this started 30-some years ago, Lee was still a name. Keeping that brand alive has been very difficult. When Liberace passed away, no one really did what they did with the Presley estate. If you turn on XM Radio, you're going to see a Sinatra station, you'll see an Elvis station. When you look at Liberace, his music is well-played, interpreted by a real talent. But it isn't kept alive the way Elvis or Sinatra's is."
--Jeffrey Koep, chairman of the Liberace Foundation board of directors, on Friday's announcement that the Liberace Museum in Las Vegas will close October 17
I shall die, but that is all that I shall do for Death; I am not on his pay-roll.
Edna St. Vincent Millay
He did have lots of fans, but unfortunately they're dying off at an alarming rate. I'd be willing to bet that the majority of people under 35 or even 40 have no idea who he was.
Judging from the Prince Poppycock performance the other night, they've been sold (or stolen)- he totally copied Lib's red white and blue outfit.
Renowned Death Hag
The Liberace Museum in Las Vegas, honoring the flamboyant entertainer known as much for his glitzy costumes and extravagant performance style as for his piano playing, and who epitomized bling long before it was a household word, will close next month.
“In some ways, the museum was the last vestige of an entertainment icon,” said Jeff Koep, chairman of The Liberace Foundation for the Performing and Creative Arts, which runs the museum that exhibits the entertainer’s extensive costumes, cars, pianos, candelabrum, and jewelry.
Often referred to as “Mr. Showmanship,” Liberace is known for giving his audience what they wanted, with performances that included everything from classical to pop music. He is credited with influencing entertainers from Elvis and Michael Jackson to Elton John and Lady Gaga.
“He was Mr. Las Vegas for almost 40 years, until the year he died,” in 1987, said Darden Asbury Pyron, professor of history at Florida International University in Miami and author of “Liberace: An American Boy.” He set attendance records at Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden and the Hollywood Bowl.
The museum’s announcement last week that it would end its 31-year run on Oct. 17 was unexpected, said David G. Schwartz, director of the Center for Gaming Research at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and in a city dominated by the casino industry, it is seen as a significant loss. “Las Vegas doesn’t have that many museums, so it’s a pretty big deal. It’s been a good thing for the city.”
“It’s been a very popular attraction,” said Alicia Malone, a public relations manager for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. “It’s been a very unique part of Las Vegas cultural history for 31 years. That’s what visitors to Las Vegas are looking for, a one-of-a-kind experience, something you couldn’t necessarily find in other cities.”
Las Vegas was hard hit by the recession but tourism remained fairly strong. After decades of solid growth the number of visitors to the city dipped slightly after 2007, a record year, but in the last 11 months has either matched or surpassed monthly volume from the previous year, Malone said.
In contrast, Koep said, there has been a steady decline in numbers to the Liberace Museum, from a high of 450,000 annual visitors 15 years ago to about 50,000 annually today.
Waning interest — along with the museum’s real estate problems, mortgage debt and lack of a steady income stream — also factored into the decision to close. The Liberace Foundation owns the strip mall that houses the museum, but 50 percent of the rental units currently are vacant. And while royalty revenue from intellectual property was robust 30 years ago, today selling to a younger generation unfamiliar with Liberace’s music is tough, Koep said.
“We are not closing the book on Liberace or what he stands for,” he added. “We’re trying to regenerate the brand.”
The foundation recently finalized a deal for a national traveling tour of its Liberace collection and one day hopes to reopen the museum in a more accessible location in Las Vegas. Currently, it is five miles from the Strip.
Being more fiscally prudent also will ensure Liberace’s legacy to continue to fund scholarships. Since 1976, roughly $6 million in music scholarships have been awarded to some 2,700 students.
Several projects are in development that are not affiliated with the foundation but that could help rekindle interest in the performer. They include a musical and a Steven Soderbergh-produced movie, set to star Michael Douglas (as Liberace) and Matt Damon
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/39273852...nation_travel/
I shall die, but that is all that I shall do for Death; I am not on his pay-roll.
Edna St. Vincent Millay
Death Hag
Although I had never seen Liberace in concert I finally made a pilgrimage to see his home in Vegas and the museum...You can tell it needed updating and no one really was interested in visiting.. The people working there was very friendly and this one man who was a volunteer and told me all about Liberaces cars was decked out almost like him down to the fake rings on the fingers..OMG It was a hoot..
too bad it will be closing down...
Senior Death Hag
I read about the museum closing and I am saddened. I know my parent's generation adored his music. I will be in Vegas just a few days after the museum closes so I will miss my chance to check it out...I sure hope they do make the touring display happen...this guy deserves a whole lot more recognition than he is getting.
If he were to die in today's world where gays are far more accepted than they were at the height of the AIDS hysteria, he would have had far more accolades showered on him.
Reading all about 1987 when he passed away and the way the press were obsessed with his having been gay and infected with HIV brought me back to that time when people who carried the virus were feared and treated horribly. Amazing how 13 years has changed people's perceptions somewhat.
I would really like to see Liberace get the recognition he so richly deserves.
Renowned Death Hag
I made a point of taking the bus out there when I visited Vegas in the fall of 2007. It was well worth the trip!
And that night, I went on the Haunted Vegas tour, and the guide told us that Liberace was a wonderful and generous soul who was taken in by the charms of a conniving, sleazy hustler.I always thought it was so sad how they made such a public spectacle of the fact that he died of AIDS. I guess it could have been a health issue in case someone transferred body fluids with him and didn't know he had AIDS, but at the time it seemed like an old-fashioned witch hunt.
If the mister and I ever decided to renew our vows, my first choice would be the Liberace wedding at the Viva Las Vegas wedding chapel.
Sad because it reminds me that the Roy Rogers museum folded for much the same reason; the fan base is dying off.
He really had an impressive collection of art and antiques. Maybe it's time for an auction at Sotheby's to benefit the Foundation.
Senior Death Hag
Sorry to hear his museum is closing.Kids in our generation grew up watching him on tv, he was such a great entertainer! I loved watching to see what great new costume he had.
An auction of his collection to benefit charity sounds like a great idea.
Renowned Death Hag
The proceeds from the museum did sponsor Music Scholarships and programs.Sorry to hear his museum is closing.
An auction of his collection to benefit charity sounds like a great idea.
I think Auctioning off and then investing the money into some type of fund sounds like the best thing.
They wouldn't have to worry about all this overheard.
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg...ge=gr&GRid=626
This is from FINDAGRAVE
His last public appearance was on a Christmas telecast of The Oprah Winfrey Show.
(BY the way, I looked up on Oprah site if this tape was available,Here is the response)
Re: December 25, 1986 Liberace¿s last public appearance the Oprah Winfrey Show is this episode available to purchase?Hello
Dec 24, 2008 8:10 PM |In response to: maxhinmon
Hi. We're sorry that the recording of the episode you are requesting is not available for sale. While transcripts of all shows are available, unfortunately we do not have clearance to sell all shows as videotapes. Please have a good night.
His health was deteriorating and he retreated to his Palm Spring home. He received the last rites of the Catholic Church and with a rosary in his hands died at the age of 68. He is interred with his mother and brother, a orchestra leader and violinist at Forest Lawn. A Memorial Mass was held at St. Anne's Catholic Church in Las Vegas. The Palm Springs City Hall flew their flag at half mast. In memory of the ever-smiling performer whose appeal spanned all age groups, The Liberace Museum , a popular Las Vegas tourist attraction, houses his collection of antiques, custom cars and elaborate costumes with proceeds funding a scholarship for aspiring musicians and artists.
Last edited by coconn04; 09-27-2010 at 09:18 AM.
I shall die, but that is all that I shall do for Death; I am not on his pay-roll.
Edna St. Vincent Millay
Senior Death Hag
It was so much fun watching his show
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSj_pxcH5Uw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mRK5...eature=related
Senior Death Hag
Jack Benny and Liberace! That was hysterical! I am sore from laughing so hard! Where ever did great shows like that ever run off to? Wish we had that kind of musical and comedic talent displayed in this day and age.
Renowned Death Hag
I agree. So called music and comedy talent of today (for the most part) can't hold a candle to the likes of Liberace and Benny. It's a damn shame.
My grandmother had some Liberace records that she would play constantly when I was a kid. She adored him. She would actually shed a tear talking about how talented he was. Not sure if this is true, but she said he had his hands insured for 1 million dollars. It always makes me feel good that Liberace put a little joy in her life till her death in 1982.
Cindy
Renowned Death Hag
Not sure if someone already posted this clip, but here he is on The Smothers Brothers show. Pretty funny.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2Bdo...eature=related
Cindy
Renowned Death Hag
I am soooo sad to hear about he museum... It is such a nostalgic looking building. I do hope they decide to tour with the items, I would love to see it in person.
My Posse's On Broadway
Senior Death Hag
Well, this is it...the final weekend for the Liberace Museum in Las Vegas...I will be only one week too late to get a chance to see it before it is gone.
http://www.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/10/12....html?hpt=Sbin
Hope to catch the mobile museum someday.
Renowned Death Hag
Seems like anything that put Vegas on the map is gone. The original hotels have been blown up and now this. It's almost like the history of Vegas is being erased. Sad.
Cindy
Senior Death Hag
I had a bit of a brainstorm...wouldn't it be great if one of the old, major casinos like the Flamingo Hilton or the Riviera made a special wing to display Liberace's museum?? I think that would be a fitting tribute to the man and a great way to draw people in too. Liberace is so responsible for igniting the entertainment industry in that town, making it the spectacle that it remains today.
Notice there are no Liberace impersonators? It would be near impossible for anyone to match his musicianship and pull off a similar performance...the man was inimitable!
Renowned Death Hag
I agree. The old Vegas is gone. sad. Not the same appeal anymore.
Senior Death Hag
The mobile museum is actually a good idea. Its no replacement for the original, but it will give more people a chance to enjoy Liberace's collection.
I was intrigued by Liberace as a kid. I wasn't sure why. We listened to alot of classical music at my house as Tues and Thrus were "no tv" night and we had to either read a book, work on a craft or play games as a family. While we were doing this, mom or dad would put on an album of classical music. They had quite a few Liberace records so I grew up knowing how talented he was as a musician.
However, I think my fascination had more to do with the way my mother acted whenever we would watch him on TV. My mom is a "fundie" christian and I can always remember her getting this strange look on her face anytime he was on screen talking instead of playing. I would ask her what was wrong and she would look startled and panicked and mutter something inconsequential. My dad would wander into the room sometimes in these moments and just stare at the screen like he was seeing a car wreck or something. But he would stand entranced and listen as soon as Liberace's fingers hit the keys.
I took me years to finally realize they were uncomfortable with his lifestyle and effeminate demeanor. I thought there was some dark and tragic secret about him that my parents knew about. LOL. I had several cousins that were gay or bi so alternative lifestyles entered my awareness in a sort of seamless way as a small child. I think I realized he was gay pretty early out and it never occurred to me that could be the reason for their discomfort. All God's children need love. Right?
Renowned Death Hag
II haven't been to Vegas in decades but I saw on the post the Liberace Museum. I only wish that this doesn't become like Memphis and every gas station is an Elvis museum or playing video games at the Liberace Arcade like the Graceland video arcade. Theres a point where you admire someone and then theres a point where you exploit them.
By the way I am a HUGE Michael Douglas fan but I can't see him as Liberace. Just be thankful Scorsesse isn't doing it I don't think anyone would like to see DiCaprio as Liberace.
When you lose a parent you lose your past. When you lose a spouse you lose your present. When you lose a child you lose your future.
R.I.P Kim: http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg...336317&df=all&
R.I.P Dad http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg...&GRid=93315851
R.I.P Mom http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg...&GRid=97780420
I was under 35 when this was written. (I'm 35 now.
I think if he were around today, he'd benefit from having a reality show. Heaven knows he had the personality for it (and a talent besides being himself).
I saw the movie last night! I don't think Michael Douglas was horribly miscast. Whom would you rather see play Liberace?
Senior Death Hag
It opens here in the UK on 7th June.I can't wait to see it .I think M.D. will do it justice .
Renowned Death Hag
just watched the movie. I really dont like michael douglas, but imo, he did great in this !
Senior Death Hag
George Clooney would be perfect since he too is a Taurus and probably had a few dicks up his ass too.
I was under 35 when this was written. (I'm 35 now.
I think if he were around today, he'd benefit from having a reality show. Heaven knows he had the personality for it (and a talent besides being himself).
I saw the movie last night! I don't think Michael Douglas was horribly miscast. Whom would you rather see play Liberace?
George Clooney playing off of Matt Damon? I'm there.
Renowned Death Hag
Excellent movie. Michael Douglas was great as Liberace - altho it was a trip seeing him and Matt Damon making out and having sex! LOL!
I can't wait until it comes out on DVD and fingers crossed it has deleted scenes and extras on it. This movie has gotten a lot of great reviews.
Death Hag
Just watched Liberace & his very last television performance on Oprah. It's on YouTube. Just type in Liberace Oprah 1986. I wanted to post it for everyone, but, not quite that computer savvy I'm afraid. It's the entire Oprah show.
Thanks Miss Sue. I lived Liberace as a little girl, long before I even knew what gay was. He was just entertaining. Little did I know that I would eventually marry a piano player.
Death Hag
Death Hag
I think it was terribly sad that not only did he have to stay in the closet, but that he died of Aids without ever acknowledging that he had the disease. Can you imagine if he had come out about being gay and the disease, what his life would have been like after? Odd, but very talented man.
Death Hag
I thought the movie was great. My husband just couldn't get over the fact that it was Matt Damon and Michael Douglas..having sex..too funny.
Death Hag
You're very welcome Bayou Queen. I think it's wonderful that you married a piano player
My boyfriend hated that the medical examiner's office felt the need to audit the original death certificate and publicize the real cause of death for the same reason. I argued that because of the nature of the disease, it shouldn't really have been covered up. Could you imagine Liberace's old dalliances having an "oh, $#%^!" moment when he died?
I found the link last night too. You could tell that he had lost weight. Someone in the comments section mentioned that he seemed a little subdued (for him) and I agree.
ETA: I was wondering whether the last boyfriend pictured in Scott's writeup was the same man for whom Liberace had left Scott Thorson as depicted in the movie. Apparently it was. You can read what ultimately happened to Lee's last boy toy here in this gallery.
Last edited by cameralady; 05-30-2013 at 08:57 AM.
I think you can attribute that to him being of "old school" show biz which is very business savvy. Why allow anything out to the public which might cost he or she half of their audience. Show biz is like any other biz. The audience are the customers and the entertainers present their product/service. Just ask the Dixie Chicks about Natalie stating her political stance.
Last edited by Bidmor; 05-30-2013 at 03:08 PM.
Renowned Death Hag
In the case of Liberace one also has to factor in the way things were in 1987 when it came to AIDS or even being gay. Many of those who had AIDS if they weren't the subject of jokes and rumors of their sex lives then they were considered "evil" by many. I still remember seeing AIDS joke books in our local Waldenbooks at the time of Liberace death oh can't forget those who felt that AIDS was God's way of punishing gays. Even those who caught AIDS say from a blood transfusion had to put up with such stuff. I am sure Liberace had what had happened to Rock Hudson when it came out he was gay and AIDS on his mind. While many felt sorry for Rock he was also damned by many too.
Last edited by choff; 05-30-2013 at 03:54 PM.
Renowned Death Hag
Here ya go:
Oprah interview, quite lengthy but good to watch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bl-jRHQ3mus
Senior Death Hag
The Loved One....Great Flick......
Death Hag Extraordinaire
Looking forward to seeing his movie.
I am a sick puppy....woof woof!!!
[SIGPIC][/SIGPIC]
Carping the living shit out of the Diem. - Me!!
http://www.pinterest.com/neilmpenny
Senior Death Hag
The Loved One....Great Flick......
Oh My Gosh - I got some recommendations to watch "The Loved One" from the Jonathan Winters thread. It was such a fun movie ....loved Liberace as a casket salesman!
liberace the loved one.jpg
Archer Fact: You can�??t tourniquet the taint. (Source: Ray Gillette)
Junior Death Hag
In the movie when Thorson and Liberace were giving their depositions, one of the lawyers asked Thorson/Damon "did you have an oral agreement with Mr. Liberace?" to which I said yeah, 20 minutes into the movie they had an "oral agreement."
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