An eclectic group gathered to pay homage and laughter to celebrate the life of “The Master of Mayhem” and ‘King of Confetti” star of stage, screen and Vegas – Rip Taylor. I met Rip at the opening and unfortunate closing of his good friend, Debbie Reynolds hotel in Vegas. Accordingly, the wake for Rip was held on the Debbie Reynolds stage at the El Portal Theatre, and among those sharing rip-roaring memories were Ruta Lee, Julie Newmar and hilariously funny Bruce Villanch.
Did you know that after serving in the Korean War, Rip made of 2,000 television appearances? We hope that Rip and the recently deceased Debbie Reynolds are up there in Heaven regaling everyone with their blend of comedy and good-natured humor.
The amazing Ann Margaret was honored by the LA Press Club by the Dolores and Bob Hope Foundation at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel. This was the 12th Annual National Arts and Entertainment Awards, honoring excellence in journalism and contributions to society. The evening was dedicated to our deceased friend, Oscar winner, Robert Forester. Quentin Tarantino received an award for storytelling outside of journalism, by Jamie Fox, and among the score of honorees, spotted Danny Trejo, Ben Mankiewicz, and our gal, the legendary Ann Margaret received the lifetime achievement award for her boundless efforts to helping others. Did you know that she appeared alongside Bob Hope on hundreds of trips to entertain the troops?
Legend Award winner Ann Margaret. Photo:
Photo: Bobby Dahlquist.
Others enjoying the festivities included actress Lee Purcell, Maude Adams, Roslyn Kind. Rosanna Arquette and Allison Anrgrim (Little House on the Prairie)
As a long-time Entertainment Reporter (check out my website) HollywoodMarci.com I am proud to be a member of the “real press” not the false one that reports unfound rumors.
