Liza Minnelli

Liza Minnelli was born on March 12, 1946, the daughter of Judy Garland and film director Vincente Minnelli. She spent much of her early life at MGM studios, where her parents worked extensively, and made her film debut at 14 months in *In the Good Old Summertime* (1949). Her parents divorced in 1951, and in 1952, her mother married Sidney Luft, resulting in the birth of her sister Lorna Luft and brother Joey Luft. Her father later married Georgette Magnani, with whom he had a daughter, Christiane Nina "Tina Nina" Minnelli, Liza's half-sister. At 16, Liza moved to New York City to begin her career in show business. Her first recognition came with the 1963 play *Best Foot Forward*, which ran for seven months. The following year, Judy Garland invited Liza to appear with her at the London Palladium, a show that sold out and added a second night. The performance marked a turning point in Liza's career and her relationship with her mother, who began to see her as an independent adult. It was also at the Palladium that Liza met her first husband, Peter Allen, a friend of Judy's. At 19, Liza won a Tony Award and was nominated for her first Academy Award at 23 for her role as Pookie Adams in *The Sterile Cuckoo* (1969). She continued with dramatic roles and won an Oscar in 1972 for her performance as Sally Bowles in *Cabaret*. The 1970s were a productive decade for Liza, during which she worked consistently in film, stage, and music. She and her friend Halston were regulars at Studio 54, the world's trendiest disco club. She married filmmaker Jack Haley Jr. and sculptor Mark Gero, both of whom were involved in theater; both marriages ended in divorce. In later years, her career has focused more on stage performances, and she has released numerous musical albums. She collaborated with Frank Sinatra on his *Duets* CD, and later with Sammy Davis Jr. on a series of concerts and TV shows that were well received. Liza has faced public scrutiny over drug abuse and health issues, including multiple high-profile stays at rehabilitation clinics. Although her schedule has slowed in recent years, she remains popular among a dedicated fan base.