Liza Minnelli, the iconic “Cabaret” singer, recently opened up about the profound impact of her mother Judy Garland’s death. In a new documentary, “Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story,” which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, Minnelli shared her emotional journey following Garland’s tragic passing.
At the age of 23, Minnelli faced the heartbreaking loss of her mother, who died from an accidental barbiturate overdose in 1969. Garland, a legendary figure in Hollywood, was only 47 years old at the time. The news of her death left Minnelli in a state of disbelief. “My mother? Nah. She’s never gonna pass,” she recalled in the documentary.
Once the reality of her mother’s death set in, Minnelli was overwhelmed with grief. “I didn’t stop crying for about eight days,” she revealed. “It was just devastating to me.” The documentary delves into various aspects of Minnelli’s life, including her career, personal struggles, and the immense influence her mother had on her.
Garland’s life was marred by decades of substance abuse, a battle that began during her childhood when she was given amphetamines to endure long working hours and barbiturates to sleep. This tumultuous lifestyle ultimately led to her untimely death. Minnelli, having witnessed her mother’s struggles, initially avoided drugs and alcohol. However, she eventually succumbed to substance abuse herself.
In the 1970s, Minnelli’s career soared, but so did her indulgence in alcohol and drugs. She admitted to developing a valium addiction following her mother’s death, which led to multiple stints in rehab. “I didn’t feel like I had a drug problem,” Minnelli said in the documentary. “I’d drink silly drinks like rum and coke.” Despite her struggles, she has shown resilience, seeking treatment whenever necessary.
Throughout her life, Minnelli has faced numerous challenges, including three miscarriages and four marriages. Despite her desire to have a family, she never became a mother. “I desperately want a family,” she once told Geraldo Rivera. Her friends and collaborators, including Allan Lazare, believe she would have been a great mother.
In the documentary, Minnelli also reflects on her career milestones, including her iconic role in “Cabaret.” She revealed that she almost missed out on the part after director Bob Fosse asked her about going topless for the role. She declined but still secured the part, ultimately winning an Oscar for her performance.
Despite her personal and professional achievements, Minnelli has remained a private individual. She rarely divulges details about her personal life, preferring to keep her struggles and triumphs to herself. However, the documentary offers a rare glimpse into her life, showcasing her resilience and strength.
In recent years, Minnelli has become more reclusive, with fans expressing concerns about her health. She was unable to attend the premiere of her documentary at the Tribeca Film Festival due to health issues. However, she remains active on social media, sharing updates about her ongoing projects and expressing her excitement about the future.
Director Bruce David Klein, who helmed the documentary, praised Minnelli’s resilience and talent. He shared that the film includes never-before-seen footage from Minnelli’s private archive, offering a unique perspective on her life and career. “Her mother died, and in three to five years she was winning a Tony, an Oscar, and on and on: a mind-blowing accomplishment,” Klein said.
Despite the challenges she has faced, Minnelli continues to inspire with her unwavering spirit. Her story is a testament to her strength and determination, qualities that have endeared her to fans around the world. As she navigates the complexities of her life, Minnelli remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, celebrated for her talent and resilience.
