When you think about love stories that stand the test of time, Liza Minnelli’s bond with her late ex-husband, Jack Haley Jr., is one for the ages. In a heartfelt conversation, she opened up about their marriage and the profound impact he left on her life.
The legendary star of Cabaret recently sat down with the iconic Michael Feinstein for Interview Magazine. The chat took place on October 16, and it was packed with personal insights and reflections on her rich, storied life. Among the topics she touched on was her unforgettable relationship with Jack.
A Conversation That Sparkles
Michael Feinstein, a 68-year-old maestro of music and conversation, brought up Jack Haley Jr., and Liza Minnelli, now 78, lit up at the mention of her former spouse. "One person in your life where your eyes light up whenever you talk about them is Jack Haley Jr.," Michael remarked, to which Liza joyfully replied, "I do light up. He was the loveliest man, the gentlest, and most interesting."
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Michael then described Jack as "an original," and Liza wholeheartedly agreed. "Oh, he really was," she said, adding, "because he understood how to make something original for whoever it was that he was working with."
Jack Haley Jr.: The Man Behind the Magic
Jack Jr., a director and producer, directed the iconic 1974 compilation film That's Entertainment! to celebrate MGM’s 50th anniversary. Liza fondly remembered his ability to elevate seemingly ordinary things into cinematic gold. "He could pick out things that nobody had heard of and make them significant," she said. "That's a wonderful movie."
Jack and Liza were married from 1974 to 1979. Before her union with Jack, she was married to Peter Allen from 1967 to 1974. After her split from Jack Jr., she tied the knot with Mark Gero from 1979 to 1992 and later with David Gest from 2002 to 2007. Despite her many marriages, Liza has not had children.
A Memorable Wedding Day
At her wedding to Jack Jr., Liza made a bold fashion statement by wearing a striking yellow Halston pantsuit. Jack Jr. was the son of Jack Haley, who famously portrayed the Tin Man alongside Liza’s mother, Judy Garland, in The Wizard of Oz. The connection between their families added a special layer to their relationship.
Jack Jr. passed away on April 21, 2001, at the age of 67 due to respiratory failure. In a statement at the time, Liza said, "Jack was the first one to remind the general public of our heritage. America’s royalty is our entertainers, who have given so much to the world."
What’s Next for Liza?
During her interview, Liza also shared what she’s up to these days. "I’m writing, creating, and working with Tiffany & Co.’s brilliant creative director, Christopher Young," she said. "He’s a pure genius. We’re collaborating on new ways to celebrate Elsa Peretti. I’m also recording again and producing with you, Michael, and Sam Haskell. Our baby business just keeps growing, and at this age, that’s a helluva good time."
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She added, "You didn’t ask, but I have one piece of advice: Take care of your body because you might live longer than you expect to. I just keep replacing parts and moving forward. You just deal with it and be happy, and as Dick Van Dyke sang and taught me, ‘Put on a Happy Face.’"
A Legacy of Love and Performance
When asked how she wants to be remembered, Liza shared, "I made my own lane. I worked and still work as hard as anyone can, and I love each person who supported me and cares about me for me."
She concluded, "I love performing. I still take dance lessons, and when I sing to people in the theater, I’m not giving a performance — I’m sharing my love with each individual person. I’m asking, ‘This is how I feel. How ‘bout you?’ My work is real."
