Liberace: The Secret Life Behind the Glitter

A new stage play, "I'll Be Seeing You," premiering this month in Scotland, aims to reveal the true identity of the flamboyant pianist Liberace. The production will explore the stark contrast between his public image and private life, as well as his most famous deceptions.

Born Władziu Valentino Liberace, he achieved global fame but was often dismissed as a "vulgar joke." In 1959, he successfully sued the Daily Mirror for libel after the publication insinuated he was homosexual. This victory, which awarded him £8,000 (approximately £167,000 today), may have emboldened his increasingly extravagant public persona.

Later, in 1982, Scott Thorson sued Liberace for $113 million in palimony, claiming financial destitution after their five-year relationship ended. Liberace denied being gay and claimed Thorson was never his lover. The case was settled in 1986, with Thorson receiving $75,000 and other assets.

"I'll Be Seeing You" arrives as interest in Liberace experiences a revival, coinciding with "Liberace & Liza," a musical comedy tribute. The play stars Simon Russell Beale, who notes the "snobbery" surrounding Liberace, emphasizing the immense work he put into his piano skills.

Liberace, born in May 1919, began piano lessons at four and performed professionally by age 13. He debuted with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in 1940 but was drawn to popular music, blending classical pieces with contemporary songs to appeal to a broader, working-class audience.

His 1950s TV series, "The Liberace Show," was a sensation, despite veiled homophobic critiques. His largely female fanbase remained loyal throughout his life. The play "I'll Be Seeing You" is scheduled to run at Scotland's Pitlochry Theatre from September 22 until October 11.