December 2006

“Imagining Liza” was published in December, 2000. It was a physically painful year for Liza, and many feared she might never be able to perform again. She moved to Florida to rest in preparation for another hip replacement.
For the next three years her life seemed a roller coaster ride. She not only had hip surgery, but also experienced weight gain, encephalitis, weight loss, the much publicized marriage to producer David Gest, a broken knee cap due to a fall, and further treatment for substance abuse. But the invincible Liza also became the beautiful face of M.A.C. cosmetics and performed on Broadway in a concert called “Liza’s Back “ (produced by Gest prior to their separation in 2003), beginning a road to recovery that has been amazing to observe.
           
She was a hit as the delightful “Lucille2” character in the clever television comedy “Arrested Development,” played a sex therapist in the movie “The OH in Ohio,” took the role of a Patsy Ramsey type character on an episode of “Law and Order, Criminal Intent,” and re-released her Emmy winning 1972 “Liza with a Z” television concert. A&E featured her biography, and she was interviewed by James Lipton for his marvelous “Inside the Actors’ Studio” series.

When Liza turned sixty years old in March 2006 she was once again performing in concert all over the world and making numerous personal appearances. Liza continued to work on behalf of AIDS research and brain damaged children.
           
The old LP’s I collected and treasured for years, were re-released as a
double CD entitled “The Complete Capitol Collection” in 2006. It is a treasuryof Liza’s early work and like the audio CD of “Liza with a Z,” a wonderful gift
to we fans.

            Liza is currently preparing a tribute to her late godmother, song composer and arranger Kay Thompson, who also wrote the “Eloise” books. Liza is so busy in her sixtieth year, it makes this fan’s head spin. She continues to amaze and delight not only her old fan base, but a whole new generation of young fans. She has fans all over the world, who, of course, now communicate with each other via the internet. Everything Liza does is instantly news and shared by her adoring public.
           
            I have had the opportunity to see Liza personally twice since publishing “Imagining Liza.” Both times were very special for me. The highlights of my more recent Liza adventures can be found under “Further Liza Adventures.”

Beverly