Their marriagecertainly did not end on a high note, as Williams found himself caught between his wife of nine years and the nanny she hired to help take care of their son. Absolutely everything was done in excess. Its like mixing a salad, co-owner Rubell used to say, or casting a play. Here is a collection of photos from only a few of the many successful events thrown at the venue, providing a glimpse into the nocturnal thrill that was Studio 54. Tabs gifs by your friend Martini Ambassador. Margaret Trudeau, Jacky Kennedy-Onassis, Yves Saint Laurent some of the names on the Studio 54 guest list are a bit shocking if only because of the club's wild reputation. Outside of the infamous Studio 54 Nightclub. Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager opened Studio 54 40 years ago, and it soon became the epicenter of New York Citys nightlife for nearly three years. Aside from the fact that all four are wearing Halston, what on earth could they possibly have in common?! Advertisement. Here it appears that fashion designer Roy Halston is feeding the queen of diamonds herself, Elizabeth Taylor. Before it closed, everyone from Mick and Bianca Jagger to Robin Williams, Michael Jackson, Liza Minelli, Elton John, Salvador Dali, and Andy Warhol (just to name a few) had spent an evening getting soused at the studio. By . Glamourous guests like Farrah Fawcett, Mariel Hemingway, Jocelyn Wildenstein, Richard Gere, Gia Carangi, Jack Nicholson, Reggie Jackson, and Sylvester Stallone all showed up for one lasthurrah. So unlike most of the celebrity regulars, she didn't have to fly in for a night out. So many things to learn every day! One of co-owner Steve Rubell's strategy to keep his famous clientele coming back was to lavish them with attention and extravagant gifts. As was Cher, Andy Warhol, and Mick and Bianca Jagger to name a few regulars. For most of his life, though, co-founder Ian Schrager has wanted to forget it. Here is Diana Ross relaxing near (and almost on) the turntables, singing along to the club's music. He is flocked (as usual) by beautiful models and adoring fans, set on enjoying the atmosphere provided by the infamous Studio 54. "What Gene has is a very different sensitivity," McCarthy says. Can you even imagine being in attendance at this New Years Eve bash? Sarah Palin is threatening to run against Lisa Murkowski, I think? Vote! Sophia, who was in the city to promote one of her books at the time, decided to stop by the club on March 11th 1979. With Justice Ginsburg presiding. The search came after Rubell made the mistake of saying that only the Mafia made more money that the club brought in. She was the member of the band Breakfast Club, and later Emmy. Her famous actor and lady-killer of a brother Warren Beatty was also spotted working the dancefloor (and the crowd) on numerous occasions. Jones was one of the many glamorous celebrities who went club hopping in New York City on a regular basis and she could most often be seen at Studio 54. Life is a cabaret, old chum. According to Bianca she knew the marriage was over about a year into it, though they stayed together for the sake of their daughter, Jade. Steve Rubel used to joke, If I wasnt the owner, I wouldnt be allowed in., Rumors swirled that drug-use was encouraged in the club. People openly took poppers on the dance floor, and less openly shot up heroin in dark corners. Studio 54, arguably the most famous club in the world, was located in New York City on, you guessed it, 54th street. 54 Rare Historic Photos That You Probably Haven't Seen Before Greta Jarueviit BoredPanda staff Usually, when you read a history article or story, it's mostly just dry facts and your imagination. People wanted to let loose and express themselves in ways other nightclubs didn't allow. What Gene has is a very different sensitivity, McCarthy says. There was a platform set up, and they were playing one of my records, and Bianca was like, 'What the hell?' She moved to New York City in 1961 and began working in musical theatre. Bianca Jagger at her birthday bash at Studio 54 in 1977. This photograph demonstrates one of those times. I pushed myself to the limit and started from there.. Before it closed, everyone from Mick and Bianca Jagger to Robin Williams, Michael Jackson, Liza Minelli, Elton John, Salvador Dali, and Andy Warhol (just to name a few) had spent an evening getting soused at the studio. Jones was, according to a 1978 issue of JET , an usher at the wedding of his cousin, Suzanne de Passe, who made Ross her maid of honor. Hosting theme parties and with birthday celebrations was a common occurrence at Studio 54. Strange color combinations, face paint, elaborate headpieces it must have been like Disneyland to Elton John. until Jagger destroyed their domestic bliss by having an affair with modelJerry Hall. Later. She avoided the task of assessing what she had in her possession for nearly a decade until she began to unearth her brothers forgotten treasures. I found it interesting that was her attitude before she even became famous.. They were eager. On the left is Studio 54 co-founder Steve Rubell with a look of pure bliss on his face as he nuzzles up to the actress. He married Juliann Felando in 1989 and they have two sons, Christian Gerald Ford and Jonathan August Ford. Who knew Elton John spent portions of the '70s not in feathers? Leave it to the quirky comedy legend to attempt to pull off this outfit, and succeed adorably. But before they left, they were serenaded farewell by Diana Ross and Liza Minnelli in front of a crowd of stars including Jack Nicholson, Sylvester Stallone, Gia Carangi, and Richard Gere, among others. From Newsweek To Now: Journalism, Sexism And Social Media, What Stephen Hawking Thinks Threatens Humankind The Most, 27 Raw Images Of When Punk Ruled New York, Join The All That's Interesting Weekly Dispatch. This was taken in the ladies' room. She also became an advocate for animal rights and after going into remission from breast cancer, she became an advocate for health awareness as well. Cool Pope joining up with the Slow Food guy, Carlo Petrini, to talk about food waste, sustaining the environment, hunger, and poverty. Theres also this magnificent treasure from the same night: writer and producer Himelstein dipping Cher to show off her long, long, long legs as they dance. Lists about the best places to be when you want to party! Bottle service, song choices, private tours, elaborate parties, celebratory gifts all these little things were just Rubell's way of making his more glamorous guests feel special and want to return. Biancas replacement, supermodel Jerry Hall whom Jagger had stolen away from fellow pop idol Bryan Ferry. Then . The male servers were scantily clad and the women were as well. It has received various releases, most notably is the 2008 DVD Double Dynamite. Spinks was allegedly staggering drunk and on a glee spree after taking the heavyweight title. This is one of the reasons why the club was frowned upon by many members of the public. a series of best-selling self-help books. There was just something about Studio 54 that other clubs just couldnt replicate. (Washington Post). The IRS took notice of the fact that this wildly successful nightclub, only paid just $8000 in taxes in 1977. It was Mick's involvement with Hall that caused Bianca Jagger to go through with the divorce proceedings even though she would have preferred to keep the family together for their daughter's sake. At the front door patrons received this notice: Welcome! Now these two actors never admitted to dating each other but why else would they be kissing inside Studio 54. Lucie was often spotted chatting up celebs like Liza Minnelli, Bill Boggs, Florence Henderson and her brother Desi Arnaz. According to co-owner Steve Rubell: 'The key to a good party is filling a room with guests more interesting than you." See Rare Photos Inside Studio 54 Nightclub - Rolling Stone (Sub)Culture See Rare Photos Inside Studio 54 Nightclub Photographer Gene Spatz captured celebrities - including John Lennon, Michael. Later, she appeared in television shows like The Bionic Woman and Fantasy Island. It first opened its doors on April 16th, 1977 and stayed open for a short but eventful 33 months. Pictured here is legendary rock and roll pioneer Chuck Berry having a drink and a few laughs with fellow guitarist and frontman of the "Rolling Stones", Keith Richards. Streamline your workflow with our best-in-class digital asset management system. Just in this single frame alone, we have (from left to right) Halston, Bianca Jagger, and Andy Warhol. Pictured here is fashion designer and former Princess, Diane von Furstenberg. Pictured here on the left is a woman dancing between two men at Studio 54, 1979. Luckily for us, a handful of photographers captured the scene at Studio 54s height in the 1970s. The clubs aura of exclusivity and atmosphere that promoted sexual freedom, is what made Studio 54 the biggest nightclub in the world. M. Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City. The Current Trashiest TV Shows You Can't Help Loving, The Best Reality Shows That Make You A Better Person. Source: Sylvester Stallone feigns throwing a punch at artist Andy Warhol during Warhols Exhibit Opening on November 20th, 1979. Studio 54's doors were open not just to the young and famous, people of all age groups (over the age of 21) were welcome. Apple and gin autumn cocktail. Nerds, help me out, does this mean a check for families every month? Enjoy or the opposite of that! Pictured here are two of Hollywood's biggest stars, Grease actor John Travolta and action movies star Sylvester Stallone. She is on maternity leave until 2033. It seemed nothing was too 'off the wall' at Studio 54. Drugs abounded and booze flowed freely for Studio 54 patrons, be they underage actors or seasoned athletes. The more scandalous or out there the people dressed, the more likely they would be chosen to enter its doors. This particular photo was taken on Feb. 28, 1980, although both men were often spotted at Studio 54. Oh good, we did, because this was FUCKING DELICIOUS. The guests were the main source of entertainment. When autocomplete results are available use up and down arrows to review and enter to select. Pictured here,is the actress, author, singer and spokesperson Suzanne Somers dancing the night away with Canadian entertainer television host and producer, Alan Hamel. that and the tales of the complete debauchery that was going on inside the club on a regular basis. In 1964, she was added to the International Best Dressed List Hall of Fame! Born Roy Halston Frowick, the creator rose to international fame throughout the 1970s for his minimalist, clean designs. Pictured here is co-owner of Studio 54, Steve Rubell enjoying yet another night surrounded by celebrities. Here he is with themegastar, singer Rod Stewart and they both seem to be having a grand ol time at Studio 54. Owners of Studio 54 had a method to their madness at the front door. Which Dream Latin Collab Would You Like to See in 2023? Let's take a look back at some of Studio 54's most memorable moments. Originally opened as an opera house in 1927, Studio 54 became a popular nightclub in 1977. She was also on the guest list for Bianca Jagger's notorious Studi 54 birthday celebration to which she showed up on horseback, and rode through the club. In fact, on several occasions, the former owner Rubell was heard rather bluntly telling people, "you're ugly, you're not coming in.". She was previously married to Prince Egon of Furstenberg, a member of the German aristocratic family. After leaving Syracuse University, classmates Rubell and Ian Schrager opened up Studio 54 and became the talk of the town. Other photographers didnt capture that. In yet another Studio 54 club appearance, Liza Minelli is seen teasing a man about his shoes. In this picture, Robin is dancing the night away with his then wife Valerie Velardi. Studio 54 was literally the place where "anything goes." Minnelli is the daughter of actress Judy Garland and the film director, Vincente Minnelli. Those who weren't sparkling, beautiful,or interesting in some way, however, were told togo home and change. determined to let her inner hedonist rule. We want it to be bisexual. Potassa was the muse of famed artist Salvador Dali. And who could blame them? When Bianca finally did divorce Jagger in 1979, he had already moved on with supermodel Jerry Hall whom Jagger had stolen away from fellow pop idol Bryan Ferry. And who could blame them? Studio 54's doors were also opened to authors. The club would reopen in 1981 under Mark new ownership, only to undergo a series of transitions until it became the building it is today, which houses a theater, offices and an educational facility. Not only were celebs and socialites on the guest list, royalty came as well. No matter the theme of the night, the sights, the drugs, the entire club scene was always decadent. It was a subculture that not only embraced hippie idealism, sexual freedom, and rampant drug use but also gave it all a place to call home. New York City. As word got around that A-listers were always inside so everyone else wanted inon the action. Mama paid actual cash money to show you this Tom the Dancing Bug cartoon LEGAL-LIKE. It was said to feel like going to a new place every night hence the frequent 'regulars' who never seemed to grow tired of returning to the same location so often. Two young starlets, sitting pretty, all dressed in flowers. Diana Ross personally serenaded Rubell and Schrager goodbye. After leaving the Impressions in 1970, Mayfield pursued a solo career and released several albums, including the soundtrack for the film Super Fly in 1972. The storied nightclub wasn't fated to have many more after 33-months it was shut down and its owners incarcerated for tax evasion. Here he's seen busting a move at Studio 54. Source: Years after the party ended, the legend of the most famous club in American history continues. In June of the following year, Rubell and Schrager would be convicted of tax fraud and obstruction of justice, confining the wild nights that Studio 54 provided to partygoers memory. Pictured here is film, television and theater actress and singer Shirley MacLaine as she celebrates the birthday of Congresswoman, social activist and feminist Bella Abzug. A couple dirty dancing at Studio 54, letting it all hang out was a pretty common sight. The party was continuously changing. "I don't have only good memories. Nothing like a little royalty on the dance floor! Following her departure from The Supremes, she went on to become one of the most successful solo female singers of all time. Studio 54 celebrated two opening nights. On December 14, 1978, feds found $600,000 hidden in garbage bags in the building! The successful actress and producer is just one of many famous faces that could often be seen getting down on the infamous dance floor at Studio 54. Here you had the Woodstock generation that was literally thrust into this memorizing new world of 70s disco. Not many people can easily recognize this ghostbuster busting a move on the Studio 54 dance floor, right next to one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live, Gilda Radner. He wrote in his memoirs, "I was consumed by cocaine, booze, and who knows what else. Here's a shot of Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones at his wife Bianca's birthday party, May 1977. This photo was taken back in 1977, during the club's first year in business. She also appeared in two Playboy cover-feature nude pictorials, in 1980 and 1984. As you can see in this photo taken in April of 1977, the pop star and filmmaker are so casual and at ease, that they look as if they're ready to pop in a video at home. At the time, she wasn't a solo artist yet. In 1977, at the height of the disco craze, a club opened at 254 West 54th Street in New York City. Six of the Temptations (Edwards, Franklin, Kendricks, Ruffin, Otis Williams and Paul Williams) were all inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989. In fact, it was expected and encouraged. (Slate), The mail-in ballot dumpster fire out of Pennsylvania. She is also known for her role in Woody Allen's Manhattan (1979), Personal Best (1982), and Star 80 (1983). Trans women were welcomed, while eccentrics such as Rollerina, a Wall Street banker by day who. Gene captured that part of history and the exuberance in a unique way. Celebrities like Dan Akroyd, Michael Jackson, Woody Allen, Rod Stewart, Olivia Newton-John, and Andy Warhol among countless others, all helped build the club's glamorous reputation. TINI, Los Dos Carnales, Yandel & More: Whats Your Favorite New Latin MusicRelease? Despite all the rumored debauchery that took place in the club, Studio 54 was alsoa place for couples. Steve Rubell, co-owner of Studio 54, and fashion designer Halston in the club's DJ booth, 1978. People would flock to the hottest club in New York town to get an eye full while getting down on the dance floor. Odd pairings seemed to run rampant throughout the club. The black-and-white photographs included scenes from iconic clubs like Studio 54 and Xenon; shots of Carrie Fisher, Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Mary Tyler Moore and Robert Redford; as well quirky New York City street life tableaus in the 1970s and Eighties. This photo was taken in March of 1979 and features actress, singer, and producer, Lucie Arnaz dancing the nightaway at Studio 54. (StatNews). However, we have a variety of soft drinks and juices, and you are welcome to drink as much as [you] like at no charge. And who could blame them? Next to him was his then-wife Bianca Jagger. Organize, control, distribute and measure all of your digital content. You can tell it was one of those nights where despite being completely exhausted, she was having too much fun to stop. It was a place that just managed to fully embody its time. Only open for 33 months, Studio 54 became the stuff of legend. The only constant throughout the club was decadence. Disco was all the rage back in the 1970s and Studio 54 was the place to be if you were in New York. When people talk about how popular this club was, they were in no way exaggerating. During the first year, the club was open, Schrager and Rubell were operating without a liquor license. Every night was a different theme and everywhere you turned was something strange and new to gawk at. But then, having the cameras there was always a part of the fun. 16,268, This story has been shared 13,858 times. 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