Showing results by publisher "BearManor Media" in Biographies & Memoirs

During a span of 55 years, Emil Richards has been a renowned presence in Hollywood soundstages, recording studios, jazz clubs, and international touring venues. Considered a supreme artist on the vibraphone, marimba and xylophone, as well as a master of his world-famous collection of percussion instruments, Richards is renowned throughout the world for his versatility.

For over 20 years, the name John Agar on a marquee meant action to moviegoers - from World War II land, sea, and air battles, to the frontier West, to the new frontier of 1950s science fiction, where he stood fast against some of the era's most memorable movie monsters. Agar's rise to fame was meteoric: during World War II, the $83-a-month buck sergeant met and later married "America's Sweetheart", Shirley Temple, and was soon offered a screen test and dramatic instruction by Hollywood mega-mogul David O. Selznick.

With his chiseled features, effortless screen presence, otherworldly vitality, and striking blue eyes, Jan-Michael Vincent seemed destined for superstardom. However, the real Jan-Michael Vincent was a reluctant sex symbol plagued by doubt and low self-confidence, a perpetual misfit doomed to alcoholism. Jan-Michael Vincent: Edge of Greatness covers Vincent’s entire life and details the difference between Jan Vincent, a shy, small-town boy, and Jan-Michael Vincent, Hollywood’s golden boy.

When Yvette, a New York model for White Rain shampoo, first appeared in Sunset Boulevard (1950), she could not have imagined that her own death would be as bizarre as Norma Desmond's gigolo, Joe's. After roles in Short Cut to Hell (1957) and Reform School Girl (1957), Yvette's fate cast her into dubious signature roles in Attack of the 50 Foot Woman (1958) and Attack of the Giant Leeches (1959).

The Hot Shot Heard ’Round the World is the singular story of an extraordinary life deeply entrenched in the entertainment industry, hit recordings, disco nights and delights, hot jazz, and the humbling experiences of achieving fortune and fame coupled with losses and gains.

Ward Morehouse III’s father, the late drama critic Ward Morehouse, lovingly introduced his son to the glamorous life of luxurious hotels. This is his memoir of his experiences at New York’s Plaza Hotel, including the many actors and actresses who came and went, the glamour and glitz, and also the animals that were brought there, even a bear named Bangkok who lived for a time at the Plaza Hotel.

He had the face of a true villain, chiseled to perfection. Director Sergio Leone once described Van Cleef as having the face of a hawk; actor Eli Wallach called it “wonderfully alive” and full of wickedness. As an actor, Van Cleef portrayed some of the best movie villains of all time. Although more than thirty years have passed since his premature death in 1989, Lee Van Cleef remains a cinematic icon. Lee Van Cleef: Best of the Bad explores the life and career of this great actor, a man with unbounded talent and a heart of finely polished gold.

In keeping with The Rehearsal Club mission to “preserve its legacy,” a national network of former residents came together to tell their stories while living at The Rehearsal Club. Spanning four decades, 1940s-1970s, The Rehearsal Club “Cinderellas” (coined by TV Guide in the 1950s) captures New York City and Broadway history while charting the journey leading to The Rehearsal Club’s incorporation in 2019.

Long before becoming beloved by generations of Mayberry fans for her portrayal of Thelma Lou, the ever-patient sweetheart of Barney Fife, Kansas City native Betty Lynn lived a life filled with interesting adventures and fascinating people. In her own words, Betty shares the sometimes bittersweet, often surprising, and always inspiring story of her remarkable life. From her wartime service in India and Burma, to sharing the spotlight with entertainment royalty from New York to Hollywood, Betty always remained grounded in her Midwestern values and strong faith.