Liza Minnelli Opens Up About Her Late Husband Jack Haley Jr. And Her Love For Him

Liza Minnelli has never shied away from sharing heartfelt stories about her life and loves. In a recent conversation, she reminisced about her marriage to Jack Haley Jr. and the profound legacy he left behind after his passing.

Cabaret star Liza Minnelli sat down with the legendary Michael Feinstein for Interview Magazine on October 16. The talk was candid and heartfelt, offering a glimpse into her storied life and the men who shaped it.

Jack Haley Jr.: The Man Who Lit Up Liza's Life

When Michael Feinstein, now 68, mentioned Jack Haley Jr.'s name, Liza, 78, couldn’t help but light up. "One person in your life where your eyes light up whenever you talk about them is Jack Haley Jr.," Michael said. Liza quickly agreed, saying, "I do light up. He was the loveliest man, the gentlest, and the most interesting person I’ve ever met."

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Michael praised Jack, calling him "an original." Liza wholeheartedly agreed, elaborating on Jack's unique talents. "Oh, he really was an original because he understood how to create something special and original for whoever he was working with," she said.

Jack Haley Jr.'s Contributions to the Entertainment World

Jack Haley Jr. wasn’t just a director and producer; he was a visionary. He directed the iconic 1974 compilation film That’s Entertainment!, which celebrated MGM’s 50th anniversary. Liza spoke fondly of Jack's ability to take obscure elements and make them shine. "He could pick out things that nobody had heard of and make them significant. That’s a wonderful movie," she said.

Their marriage lasted from 1974 to 1979, and it was one of many chapters in Liza's colorful love life. Before Jack, she was married to Peter Allen from 1967 to 1974. After Jack, she went on to marry Mark Gero from 1979 to 1992 and David Gest from 2002 to 2007. Despite her many marriages, Liza never had children.

A Wedding to Remember

At her wedding to Jack Haley Jr., Liza made a bold fashion statement by wearing a yellow Halston pantsuit. This choice was a testament to her bold and confident personality. Interestingly, Jack Jr. was the son of Jack Haley, the actor who portrayed the Tin Man alongside Liza’s mother, Judy Garland, in The Wizard of Oz. It was a beautiful connection that tied their families together in a unique way.

Jack Haley Jr. passed away on April 21, 2001, due to respiratory failure at the age of 67. Reflecting on his life and legacy, 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 Minnelli?

In her most recent interview, Liza also shared what she’s up to in this phase of her life. "I’m writing, creating, and working with Tiffany & Co.’s [creative director] Christopher Young, who is a pure genius. We’re collaborating on new ways to celebrate Elsa Peretti," she revealed. "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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Liza offered some sage advice: "Take care of your body 'cause 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 to me, 'Put on a Happy Face.'”

When asked how she wants to be remembered, Liza said, "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 added, "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."