February 4, 1987 – Mr.Wladziu Valentino Liberace, (at some point) the highest-paid entertainer in the world passed away aged 80. He is remembered.

Liberace: Mr. Showmanship

Born Władziu Valentino Liberace on May 16, 1919, in West Allis, Wisconsin, Liberace grew up in a musical household. His father, a professional French horn player, and his mother, from a family of musicians, instilled in him a deep appreciation for music. Liberace began piano lessons at age four and earned a scholarship to the Wisconsin College of Music at seven and a half, continuing his studies for 17 years despite his family’s financial struggles.

As a teenager, he formed the Mixer Orchestra, a dance band, and supplemented his musical education with speech and dance lessons. Liberace played at weddings and local taverns during the Great Depression to support his family. His classical training earned him recognition, and in 1940, he performed as a guest soloist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

To balance his classical aspirations with popular music performances, Liberace used the pseudonym Walter Buster Keys, showcasing his versatility across genres like ragtime, boogie-woogie, and show tunes.

Building His Persona

In 1942, Liberace moved to California, rebranding himself and crafting a unique image. By 1945, he incorporated a candelabra into his act, inspired by the film *A Song to Remember*, which became his trademark. A stagehand dressed as a butler would ceremoniously bring out the candelabra as an offstage voice introduced him to the audience. His performances combined classical pieces with popular tunes, blending Beethoven classics with the beer barrel polka.

Liberace embraced publicity, often engaging in attention-grabbing stunts. His humor and charm endeared him to audiences, and he famously quipped, “I cried all the way to the bank” in response to criticism. His charisma and theatricality became central to his success as a performer.

By 1952, Liberace found his natural fit on television, hosting a local Los Angeles show that soon gained national syndication. His program featured piano performances, personal stories, and anecdotes, creating a connection with viewers that brought in 5,000 letters of fan mail each week. His ability to incorporate glimpses of his personal life into his shows anticipated elements of modern reality television.

Expanding His Stardom

Liberace’s television success surpassed even *I Love Lucy* in station coverage, and he remained a fixture on the small screen, appearing on programs like *The Betty White Show* and *Batman*. He headlined in Las Vegas, earning up to $600,000 for two-night engagements. His flamboyant costumes, complete with diamond-studded buttons, and extravagant homes, such as The Cloisters in Palm Springs, reinforced his image as a larger-than-life entertainer.

He made his film debut in *South Sea Sinner* in 1950 and starred in *Sincerely Yours* in 1955. Despite attempts at movie stardom, his appeal was strongest on stage and television, where his theatricality could shine. He also opened the Liberace Museum in 1979, showcasing his collections and establishing a foundation to provide scholarships for young performers.

His influence extended beyond the entertainment world, as he played a key role in shaping Las Vegas into a premier destination for entertainment.

Health and Later Life

In the 1960s, Liberace faced kidney failure, which he attributed to a religious experience and recovery through faith. However, his health declined significantly in the 1980s. He suffered from emphysema, heart disease, and complications from AIDS, a diagnosis he tried to keep private. Despite his declining health, he continued performing and maintaining his public image until his final days.

Liberace died at his Palm Springs home on February 4, 1987. His passing was followed by three funeral services, reflecting his prominence and the admiration of his fans. His death brought attention to AIDS, highlighting its impact on public figures during that era.

He left behind a legacy of flamboyant showmanship, generosity, and an enduring influence on entertainment.

Legacy

Liberace is remembered as “Mr. Showmanship,” a title befitting his dazzling performances and distinctive personal style. His use of the candelabra and elaborate costumes became symbols of his persona, and his contributions to music and entertainment continue to inspire admiration. The Liberace Foundation supports aspiring artists, ensuring his impact extends to future generations.

He played a pivotal role in making Las Vegas an entertainment mecca, and his legacy as one of the world’s greatest entertainers remains secure. Through his music, collections, and the memories of those he inspired, Liberace’s spirit continues to captivate audiences worldwide.