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Vincente MinnelliAmerican Hollywood and theatre director.
Date of Birth: 28.02.1903
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Lester Anthony Minnelli
- Early Life and Career
- Transition to Theatre
- Broadway Success
- Marriage to Judy Garland
- Film Career
- Later Years
Lester Anthony Minnelli
Lester Anthony Minnelli was an American theatre and film director, best known for his work on musicals and melodramas.
Early Life and Career
Born in Chicago, Illinois, to Mina Gennell and Vincent Charles Minnelli, Minnelli spent his early years traveling with his family before settling in Delaware, Ohio. After graduating high school, he moved to Chicago, where he worked as a window display designer and photographer.
Transition to Theatre
Minnelli's passion for theatre led him to design costumes and sets for the Chicago Theatre. He later joined the 'Paramount-Publix' chain and moved to New York City. After designing sets for 'Radio City Music Hall,' he directed his first stage production, 'At Home Abroad,' in 1935.
Broadway Success
Minnelli gained recognition for his work on Broadway productions such as 'The Ziegfeld Follies' and 'Very Warm for May.' In 1940, he signed with 'MGM' and made his film debut with 'Cabin in the Sky.'
Marriage to Judy Garland
While filming 'Meet Me in St. Louis,' Minnelli fell in love with actress Judy Garland. They married in 1945 and welcomed a daughter, Liza Minnelli. Minnelli and Garland divorced in 1951.
Film Career
Throughout his career, Minnelli earned critical acclaim for his musicals, including 'An American in Paris' (1951) and 'Gigi' (1958), for which he won an Academy Award for Best Director. He also directed notable comedies such as 'Father of the Bride' (1950) and melodramas such as 'The Reluctant Debutante' (1958).
Later Years
Minnelli's last film was 'A Matter of Time' (1976). He received numerous accolades for his work, including seven Academy Awards for actors in his films and two nominations for Best Director. In 1986, he passed away, just weeks after being awarded the French Legion of Honor.
