Behind the Candelabra: My Life with Liberace

Behind the Candelabra: My Life with Liberace is Scott Thorson's memoir of his time as Liberace's companion during the late 1970s and early 1980s. The book provides an insider's perspective on the life of one of America's most famous entertainers, known for his flamboyant piano performances and lavish lifestyle. Thorson details his first encounter with Liberace at age 17 and his subsequent integration into the performer's private world. The narrative chronicles their relationship as it evolves from employer-employee to a more complex personal connection, set against the backdrop of Las Vegas shows and palatial homes. Written with co-author Alex Thorleifson, the memoir examines the entertainment industry of the era and the challenges of living in the shadow of a superstar. The book provides context for the 2013 HBO film adaptation starring Michael Douglas and Matt Damon. The memoir raises questions about fame, power dynamics, and the price of living an authentic life in the public eye. It stands as both a personal account and a document of LGBTQ+ history during a less accepting time in American society.

Readers describe this as a raw, tell-all memoir that details Thorson's relationship with Liberace. The storytelling maintains a tabloid-like tone throughout. Readers appreciated: - Behind-the-scenes details about Liberace's private life - The candid writing style - Photos included in the book - Thorson's willingness to share unflattering details about himself Common criticisms: - Writing quality is basic and repetitive - Too much focus on expensive gifts and money - Thorson comes across as bitter and self-serving - Some passages feel exaggerated or unreliable Ratings: Goodreads: 3.6/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4/5 (430+ ratings) "Reads like a National Enquirer exposé," notes one Amazon reviewer. Multiple Goodreads reviewers mention feeling uncomfortable with the age difference between Thorson and Liberace. Several readers commented that the HBO film adaptation told the story more effectively than the book.

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🎭 Liberace's real name was Władziu Valentino Liberace, and he earned over $5 million per year at the height of his career in Las Vegas. 💫 Scott Thorson was just 16 when he first met Liberace, who was 57 at the time. Their relationship lasted from 1976 to 1982. 🎬 The 2013 HBO film adaptation won two Golden Globe Awards and eleven Emmy Awards, with Michael Douglas's portrayal of Liberace earning particular acclaim. 💉 Thorson underwent plastic surgery at Liberace's request to look more like a younger version of the performer, a detail that became one of the most controversial aspects of both the book and film. 🏰 The book describes Liberace's 31-room Las Vegas mansion, which featured $50,000 worth of marble flooring and a piano-shaped swimming pool among its extravagant details.