Liza Minnelli | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : April 10, 2025

Who is Liza Minnelli?

Liza Minnelli is an iconic American singer and actress, born on March 12, 1946, in Los Angeles, California. She is the daughter of Hollywood royalty, with her mother being the legendary actress Judy Garland and her father the renowned director Vincente Minnelli. Liza made her acting debut as a toddler in the musical comedy "In the Good Old Summertime" (1949) and later gained significant recognition with her performances alongside her mother. Despite the pressures of being raised in such a prominent family, Liza carved out her own path in entertainment, showcasing her musical talents and dramatic skills on stage and screen.

Her career took off in the 1960s when she starred in the off-Broadway revival of "Best Foot Forward" and earned acclaim for her performance in the Broadway musical "Flora, The Red Menace," which won her her first Tony Award at just 19. Liza achieved mainstream success with her role as Sally Bowles in the film "Cabaret" (1972), winning the Academy Award for Best Actress and establishing herself as a leading figure in show business. Over the years, she has faced personal struggles, including battles with addiction and the impact of her family's tumultuous personal history, yet she remains a celebrated performer known for her unforgettable live concerts and appearances in popular shows like "Arrested Development" and "Sex and the City 2."

Early Life and Education

Liza Minnelli was born on March 12, 1946, in Los Angeles, California, to renowned actress Judy Garland and director Vincente Minnelli. Growing up in a household filled with music and performance, Liza made her film debut as a toddler in the 1949 musical comedy "In the Good Old Summertime." Her early exposure to the entertainment world included appearing in her mother's concert productions, although she did not fully pursue a career in acting until her teenage years. Following her parents' divorce in 1951, Liza split her time between them, with her mother often struggling with addiction and depression.

In her pursuit of a stage career, Liza Minnelli decided to leave school and move to New York City as a teenager. She quickly found success, debuting in the off-Broadway revival of "Best Foot Forward" in 1963, garnering critical acclaim. Liza's talent truly shone during her performances with her mother, and she began to attract attention for her vocal abilities. By 1965, she secured her first major Broadway role in "Flora, The Red Menace," earning a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical at just 19, establishing her as a formidable talent in her own right.

Aspiring Actress: Stage Career Start

Liza Minnelli's journey into the world of performance began in earnest when she relocated to New York City as a teenager, ready to carve out her own identity in the shadow of her legendary mother, Judy Garland. With a determination to succeed, she landed her first significant role in the off-Broadway revival of "Best Foot Forward" in 1963. The production received strong reviews, marking her as a rising star in the theatrical community. This early exposure helped Minnelli hone her skills and showcased her natural talent, setting the stage for her future endeavors in both theater and film.

During this formative time, Minnelli also appeared on her mother's short-lived television show, "The Judy Garland Show," which further solidified her standing in the entertainment industry. Notably, her performance alongside her mother at London's Palladium was a pivotal moment, as it allowed her to impress audiences and gain recognition for her vocal abilities. In 1965, Minnelli achieved a significant milestone when she starred in "Flora, The Red Menace," a light musical comedy that earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical, making her one of the youngest recipients of this prestigious honor at just 19 years old. This early success positioned her as a formidable talent in her own right, paving the way for her illustrious career.

Mainstream Success: Academy Award and Tony Wins

Liza Minnelli achieved mainstream success with her iconic performance in the film "Cabaret" (1972), where she portrayed the floundering nightclub singer Sally Bowles. Directed by Bob Fosse, the film not only showcased her extraordinary singing and acting abilities but also marked a pivotal moment in her career, earning her the Academy Award for Best Actress. "Cabaret" became a cultural touchstone, securing eight Academy Awards, including Best Director for Fosse and Best Supporting Actor for Joel Grey, further cementing Minnelli’s reputation in Hollywood. Her captivating performance dazzled audiences, drawing in both critical acclaim and commercial success in an era dominated by musical films.

Following her triumph in "Cabaret," Liza continued to thrive in live performances and television. Her Emmy Award-winning special, "Liza with a Z," produced by Fosse and Ebb in 1972, highlighted her unique style and charismatic presence. With this success, Minnelli redefined the boundaries of musical theater and television, showcasing her versatility as a performer. She further solidified her standing on Broadway with a stellar performance in "The Act" (1977), winning her second Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. These accolades not only highlighted her artistic talent but also positioned her as an influential figure in the entertainment industry, setting the stage for her future endeavors in film and live performances.

Veteran Performer: Rehabilitation and Comeback

By the mid-1980s, Liza Minnelli faced significant personal challenges as she battled her own issues with drugs and alcohol. Recognizing the need for help, she entered the Betty Ford Clinic for rehabilitation. This pivotal moment set her on a path to recovery, allowing her to regain control over her life and career. Post-rehabilitation, Minnelli embarked on an extensive concert tour, captivating audiences around the world with her dynamic performances. Although her film roles during this period were less memorable, she continued to be a force in live entertainment, showcasing her enduring talent and charisma.

During this time, Minnelli also dealt with the loss of her father, Vincente Minnelli, who passed away in 1986 from heart failure. This loss deeply affected her, leading to her participation in the documentary "Minnelli on Minnelli: Liza Remembers Vincente," which was well-received and garnered several Emmy Award nominations. Around the same time, she teamed up with legends Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. for "The Ultimate Event," a world tour that further solidified her status as a veteran performer. In the 2000s, she made memorable guest appearances on popular television series, such as "Arrested Development" and “Sex and the City 2,” while primarily focusing on her beloved live performances.

Personal Life: Married Four Times

Liza Minnelli, the iconic singer and actress, has had a tumultuous journey in her personal life, particularly when it comes to love and marriage. Over the years, she has navigated four marriages, with varying degrees of success. Her first marriage was to Australian singer-songwriter Peter Allen, which lasted from 1967 to 1972. Despite the end of this union, both Liza and Peter maintained a cordial relationship, continuing to support each other's careers.

Following her relationship with Allen, Minnelli married Jack Haley Jr., the son of the actor who famously played the Tin Man in “The Wizard of Oz.” Their marriage spanned from 1974 to 1979, but like her first, it eventually ended in divorce. Liza’s third marriage to sculptor Mark Gero lasted the longest, from 1979 until their separation in 1992. Though this union brought years of companionship, it too did not withstand the test of time. In 2002, Liza married producer David Gest, but this whirlwind romance ended dramatically after just 16 months. Throughout these relationships, Liza has continued to captivate audiences with her talent, always striving to maintain her artistic identity amidst the challenges of her personal life.

Net Worth and Earning: Career Earnings

Liza Minnelli's net worth and career earnings reflect her decades-long success in show business, marked by her remarkable talents as both a singer and actress. Throughout her illustrious career, she has amassed a significant fortune estimated to be around $50 million. Minnelli's income derives primarily from her hit films, acclaimed stage performances, and extensive concert tours. Notably, her role in the iconic film "Cabaret" not only garnered her an Academy Award but also contributed significantly to her financial success, enhancing her reputation as a premier entertainer.

Beyond film, Minnelli's Broadway achievements further solidified her wealth. With two Tony Awards to her name, her performances in productions like "Flora, the Red Menace" and "The Act" captivated audiences and critics alike. In addition to her movie and theater ventures, Minnelli's live concert tours around the globe continue to be a substantial source of income. She has gracefully adapted to the changing entertainment landscape, ensuring that her talent remains relevant and her earnings steady, even into her later career. These milestones contribute to a legacy that transcends generations, reinforcing her status as a beloved icon in the arts.

FAQs

What is Liza Minnelli known for?

Liza Minnelli is renowned for her dynamic career as a singer and actress, particularly noted for her role in the classic film "Cabaret". With her powerful vocals and stage presence, she has won numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, multiple Tony Awards, and an Emmy Award.

Who are Liza Minnelli's parents?

Liza Minnelli was born to iconic figures in the entertainment industry. Her mother is the legendary actress and singer Judy Garland, known for her role in "The Wizard of Oz", while her father was the acclaimed director Vincente Minnelli, famous for films such as "Meet Me in St. Louis".

What significant challenges has Liza Minnelli faced?

Throughout her life, Liza Minnelli has faced numerous personal challenges, including battles with addiction to drugs and alcohol. Her tumultuous relationship with her mother, Judy Garland, who struggled with addiction as well, deeply impacted Minnelli's life and career.

When did Liza Minnelli win her Academy Award?

Liza Minnelli won her Academy Award for Best Actress for her unforgettable portrayal of Sally Bowles in the 1972 film "Cabaret". This role not only showcased her exceptional talent but also established her as a major figure in the film industry.

What other notable performances has Liza Minnelli had?

Beyond "Cabaret", Minnelli has had a prolific career on stage and screen. She received critical acclaim for her roles in "The Sterile Cuckoo", "Arthur", and her television special "Liza with a Z", showcasing her versatility as both an actress and singer.

Has Liza Minnelli performed live?

Yes, Liza Minnelli is also celebrated for her live performances. She continues to tour extensively, captivating audiences with her concerts, featuring her signature songs and showcasing her enduring talent.

How many times has Liza Minnelli been married?

Liza Minnelli has been married four times. Her notable marriages include Australian singer-songwriter Peter Allen, director Jack Haley Jr., sculptor Mark Gero, and producer David Gest, although each marriage ended in divorce.