Celebrity Genealogy      Research - My Family

Discovering Liza Minnelli in My Family Tree: A Connection to Hollywood Royalty

It never fails to amaze me when I discover a true superstar in my family tree—and finding Liza Minnelli was one of those jaw-dropping moments. Everyone knows who Liza Minnelli is: the Oscar-winning actress, singer, and daughter of Hollywood legend Judy Garland. When I traced my lineage and realized that Judy Garland—born Frances Ethel Gumm—was my 26th cousin, three times removed, I knew I had uncovered something extraordinary.

Writing about two iconic women like Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli is no easy task. What could I possibly say about them that hasn’t already been said? Still, their stories—and my personal connection—deserve to be celebrated.

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Early Life and Family Background

Liza May Minnelli was born on March 12, 1945, at the world-famous Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California. Her parents were two of Hollywood’s brightest stars: Judy Garland, an acclaimed actress and singer best known for The Wizard of Oz, and Vincente Minnelli, an award-winning film and stage director.

According to family history, Judy and Vincente named their daughter after the Ira Gershwin song “Liza”—a fitting choice for someone destined for the stage. Knowing what I know about both Gershwin’s music and my cousin Liza’s energy, I’d say it was the perfect name for her.

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Liza Minnelli’s Rise to Stardom

Liza’s connection to Hollywood royalty may have opened doors, but her talent is what kept her there. She attended the High School of Performing Arts in New York City, the same school later immortalized in the movie and TV series Fame.

At just 16, Liza became an apprentice at the Cape Cod Melody Tent in Hyannis, Massachusetts. She performed in the chorus of Flower Drum Song and played Muriel in Take Me Along. By 17, she made her professional debut in the Off-Broadway musical Best Foot Forward, earning the prestigious Theatre World Award for her performance.

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Legendary Performances and Music Career

In 1964, Judy Garland invited her daughter to perform alongside her at the London Palladium. The mother-daughter concerts were recorded and later released as the album Live at the London Palladium, which reached #41 on the Billboard charts.

Throughout her career, Liza became a fixture in nightclubs across Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Miami, and New York City. Between 1963 and 2013, she recorded:

• 11 studio albums

• 10 live albums

• 33 singles

• Dozens of compilations, music videos, and collaborations

Her crystal-clear, powerful voice, paired with her undeniable stage presence, made her one of the most dynamic entertainers of her generation.

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Acting, Dancing, and the Magic of Performance

From Cabaret to Arthur, Liza Minnelli has proven time and again that she’s a triple threat—singing, acting, and dancing with infectious energy. Her expressive eyes, radiant smile, and natural charisma make every performance unforgettable. Whether on stage or screen, Liza gives her all, leaving audiences spellbound.

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Personal Struggles and Strength

Like many artists, Liza Minnelli has faced personal challenges. She’s been married and divorced four times and has openly battled alcoholism and addiction. Her courage in seeking help through programs like the Betty Ford Clinic is truly inspiring.

I admire Liza not for her struggles, but for her strength and honesty in confronting them. Admitting you need help—especially in the public eye—takes extraordinary bravery. That resilience makes her not just a star, but a survivor.

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Advocacy and Humanitarian Work

Beyond the stage, Liza Minnelli has dedicated much of her time to HIV/AIDS research and advocacy. Having lost many friends to the disease, she became a strong supporter of amfAR (The Foundation for AIDS Research), co-founded by another of my distant cousins, Elizabeth Taylor.

In fact, Liza was among the first to discuss HIV/AIDS with Taylor after their mutual friend Rock Hudson passed away from the disease in 1985. Her compassion and activism continue to make a difference.

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A Family Connection to Hollywood Royalty

Though we are distant cousins—sharing King Henry II (Plantagenet) of England as our common ancestor (my 25th great-grandfather and Liza’s 23rd)—I feel proud to include Liza Minnelli in my family tree of legends.

Maybe one day I’ll have the privilege of meeting my 27th cousin in person. But even if that never happens, I’m grateful for the incredible joy and entertainment she has brought to millions around the world—including me.

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Final Thoughts

Liza Minnelli isn’t just a Hollywood icon; she’s a symbol of resilience, creativity, and passion. From her early days on Broadway to her Oscar-winning role in Cabaret and her lifelong commitment to humanitarian causes, she has truly earned her place among entertainment’s greatest legends.

And for me, discovering that she’s part of my family makes her story all the more special.