On a somewhat lighter note, GetTV(which is like a Columbia Pictures/CBS classics cable station with commercials) has started showing the classic Judy Garland Show from the early 1960's. These are some legendary Judy performances along with guests like Streisand, Merman, Fitzgerald...too numerous to list. I think it was on for two years on CBS. The show was taped before a live audience, full orchestra, wonderful!
FYI, GetTV is also an "over the air" (antenna) digital standard definition channel. I assume the OTA version is also available in markets that have it on cable. Worth checking though, for those who have cut the cable cord.
Wow, PJ Thank You thank you; that's great. Where do you find this stuff so fast? I can't wait to see the Chita Rivera. The one from last night was Basie and Torme. I thought I saw Ella Fitzgerald in a commercial but I guess I was wrong. Thanks again
And there's a now-out-of-print book by the last Steve Sanders that tells the story of the rise and fall of Judy's TV series. You can still find copies on Amazon:
Yes! Mel's book is self-serving and vindictive. The Steve Sanders book gives a comprehensive view of the show, based on firsthand interviews with many of the participants.
Melvin felt it was below him to cue Judy off-stage. I find that unsupportive and ridiculous - help a bitch out. Tormé's book is trash and is an unfortunate but irrefutable part of his legacy,which was all his own doing.
They worked well together and show little tension on-air:
I'm so happy TJGS is being shown somewhere. It's my favorite Judy period and I particularly love the glamourous concerts eps without lame Jerry Van Dyke or chorus dancing. To echo PJ, rent or buy the Sanders book. If you enjoy Judy you will love it, but it's also essential reading for anyone interested in television history - a process nerd's delight (literally every show is detailed) - it's a really great read!
She's so delightful! Also, the master tapes were kept in great shape and many of her songs were performed with a studio-quality mic so the audio and visual on these shows are stunning. Tune in if you are able.
"...ah, gays and their wit. Hell must be a laugh a minute!"
-Evie Harris
Thank you, PJ! I have the shows on DVD, but for some reason they chose to mix up the episodes, four to each 2-sided DVD. The episodes are dated, but I'm always trying to figure out what came before or after.
(The Sanders book came enclosed with my DVD set. I don't know if that's still true or not, or even if that DVD set is still available.)
There were two boxed sets. The numbering was very confusing. It had to do with which of the masters they could wrestle away from Sid Luft, who was dying at the time and not willing to let them go, even though he had been paid for them.
Both DVD boxed sets are out of print--the company went bankrupt--and used copies of the DVD sets go for between $200 and $500.
That is truly sad. Judy Garland is a national treasure and her legacy needs to be preserved for future generations. We must not forget her. Future generations need to know her beyond The Wizard of Oz
It was a Christmas gift from my husband, along with 5th row center seats to see Barbara Cook live. I opened the two packages and started to cry. My friends and family--most of whom were straight that night--said it was absolutely the gayest thing they'd ever seen anyone do.
GavestonPS said: "joey, I'm glad I got my copy when I did!
It was a Christmas gift from my husband, along with 5th row center seats to see Barbara Cook live. I opened the two packages and started to cry. My friends and family--most of whom were straight that night--said it was absolutely the gayest thing they'd ever seen anyone do.