Liza Minnelli's Memoir Lacks the Sparkle of Her Career

The 80-year-old entertainer's new book "Kids, Wait Till You Hear This!" offers a circumspect look at her life and times.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 11:21am

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Liza Minnelli's new memoir "Kids, Wait Till You Hear This!" offers a more compact and restrained account of the entertainer's life compared to the candid, sprawling memoirs of her contemporaries like Barbra Streisand and Cher. The book, co-written with Michael Feinstein and two veteran journalists, covers familiar territory including Minnelli's upbringing in the Hollywood Hills, her breakout role in "Cabaret," and her tumultuous personal life, but lacks the sparkle and drama of her storied career.

Why it matters

Minnelli's memoir provides a more subdued look at the life of a Hollywood icon who has long been in the public eye. While much of her story has been told before, the book offers Minnelli's own perspective on key moments and relationships, shedding light on her resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges.

The details

The memoir, 12 years in the making, covers well-trodden ground from Minnelli's early life as the daughter of Judy Garland to her breakout role in the 1972 film "Cabaret" and her four tumultuous marriages. However, the book also features some new revelations, including Minnelli's account of a tense encounter with Lady Gaga at the 2022 Oscars. Minnelli, who turns 80 this month, has fought a litany of health problems over the years but has continued to perform and remain a fixture in the entertainment industry.

  • Minnelli's memoir was 12 years in the making.
  • Minnelli turns 80 on March 12, 2026.
  • The book was published on March 10, 2026.

The players

Liza Minnelli

An American actress, singer, and dancer who is the daughter of legendary entertainer Judy Garland. Minnelli is known for her roles in films like "Cabaret" and "Arthur" and has had a long, storied career in the entertainment industry.

Michael Feinstein

An American singer, pianist, and music revivalist who collaborated with Minnelli on her memoir and is known for his work preserving the Great American Songbook.

Lady Gaga

An American singer, songwriter, and actress who Minnelli says flustered and patronized her during a joint appearance at the 2022 Oscars.

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What they’re saying

“I believe she bears some responsibility for the havoc that so unnerved me, minutes before we went on stage.”

— Liza Minnelli

“Whenever I looked for my missing eyelashes, I checked his bathroom.”

— Liza Minnelli

What’s next

Minnelli's memoir is expected to generate continued interest in the entertainer's life and legacy, particularly as she approaches her 80th birthday. Fans and critics alike will likely analyze the book for new insights into Minnelli's storied career and personal struggles.

The takeaway

While Liza Minnelli's memoir may lack the drama and sparkle of her on-stage persona, it offers a more introspective look at the life of a Hollywood icon who has weathered personal and professional challenges to maintain her status as a beloved entertainer.