Liberace

Władziu Valentino Liberace (May 16, 1919 – February 4, 1987) was an American pianist, singer and actor. He was born in Wisconsin to parents of Italian and Polish origin and enjoyed a career spanning four decades of concerts, recordings, television, motion pictures and endorsements. At the height of his fame from the 1950s to 1970s, he was the highest-paid entertainer in the world with established concert residencies in Las Vegas and an international touring schedule.

He became popular with general audiences due to performances that included showmanship and elaborate costumes and choreography. His critical reception was mixed, with some believing his playing was flashy but lacking in depth.

In 1959, Liberace successfully sued the Daily Mirror for libel after they published an article implying that he was homosexual (which was criminalized at the time). Later, in 1982, he was sued by his lover and chauffeur, Scott Thorson, for palimony. He continued to deny that he was homosexual.

Early life and education

Władziu Valentino Liberace (known as Lee to his friends and Walter to family) was born on on May 16, 1919, in West Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a suburb of Milwaukee. His grandfather Valentino Liberace (1836–1909) was a casket maker from Formia in Southern Italy where his father, musician Salvatore ("Sam") Liberace (1885–1977), was born. His mother, Frances Zuchowski (1891–1980) was born in Menasha, Wisconsin, and was of Polish descent. Liberace had an identical twin who died at birth. He had three surviving siblings: a brother George (who was a violinist), a sister Angelina, and younger brother Rudy (Rudolph Valentino Liberace, named after the actor due to his mother's interest in show business).