Yep, it’s official; Liza Minnelli, hits the big 8‑0 today (March 12, 2026). Born to actress/singer, Judy Garland, and director, Vincente Minnelli, she basically came out of the womb with glitter on her hands. Her very first screen appearance? As a baby in the final scene of her mother’s film, “In the Good Old Summertime” (1949). She was 3. And honestly, that feels about right for the kind of star she’s been ever since.
Photos: Liza Minnelli, Then
GettyJudy Garland (1928 – 1969) holding her and film director Vincente Minnelii’s young daughter, LizaGettyJudy Garland (1922 – 1969) with her toddler daughter Liza Minnelli on the set of the film ‘Words and Music,’ in 1948GettyLiza Minnelli with father, Vincente Minnelli (1913 – 1986), aboard the Queen Elizabeth prior to sailing to meet up with her mother, Judy Garland (1922 – 1969), in 1951GettyLorna Luft, age 7, Joe Luft, age 5, Judy Garland (1922 – 1969), and Liza Minnelli, age 14, circa 1960.GettyLiza Minnelli with mom, Judy Garland (1922 – 1969), circa 1960
Broadway Beginnings
Teen Liza moved to New York and threw herself into theatre and singing in nightclubs. By 17, she was already hitting the stage in “Best Foot Forward.” At 19, she won her first Tony Award for “Flora the Red Menace,” proving she could shine without leaning on her famous parents. Other Broadway highlights? “The Act” (1977), “The Rink” (1984), and taking over Julie Andrews’ role in “Victor/Victoria” (1997). That’s a resume that says “legend” in every font size.
GettyLiza Minnelli, circa 1970sGettyLiza Minnelli, circa 1970sGettyLiza Minnelli during an interview with David Frost (1972)GettyLiza Minnelli accepts award onstage, circa 1970sGettyLiza Minnelli arrives at the Mermaid Theatre in London to attend the opening night of ‘Breaking the Silence’ in 1985GettyLiza Minnelli hugs Elizabeth Taylor at the 42nd Annual Golden Globe Awards (1985)
Film & TV Highlights
Minnelli’s first credited film role was in “Charlie Bubbles” (1967), but soon she was everywhere: “The Sterile Cuckoo” (1969), “Cabaret” (1972), “New York, New York” (1977), “Arthur” (1981), and “Stepping Out” (1991). On TV? She gave us “Liza with a Z” (1972), then popped up decades later in hit shows, “Arrested Development” (2003–2019) and “Drop Dead Diva” (2013). Every role, whether big or small, reminded the world why she’s Liza Minnelli.
Photos: Liza Minnelli, Now
GettyLiza Minnelli at the Macy’s and American Express Passport Gala in 2003GettyLiza Minnelli onstage at Macy’s and American Express Passport Gala (2003)GettyLiza Minnelli arrives at the 2004 Nick at Nite TV Land AwardsGettyLiza Minnelli (and un-named guest) attend the Oscars in 2014GettyLady Gaga and Liza Minnelli during the 94th Academy Awards in 2022GettyMichael Feinstein and Liza Minnelli backstage during the 37th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in 2026GettyLiza Minnelli speaks during the 37th Annual GLAAD Media Awards (2026)
From baby star to Broadway queen to movie icon, Liza Minnelli has done it all; and we think she still sparkles like she’s 30, not 80. We won’t ever forget all the toe‑tapping tunes, epic performances, and all that jazz. Happy birthday, Liza!
Robin Reynolds is a journalist with over eight years of experience in content creation. With EntertainmentNow she specializes in celebrity news, reality TV, and fandom culture. She often writes for Hallmark, HGTV, "American Idol," "Big Brother," "The Voice," Food TV, and more. Robin holds graduate degrees in Creative Writing and New Media Journalism from Full Sail University. She currently resides in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, with her family and two cats. More about Robin Reynolds
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Liza Minnelli Turns 80! – Let’s Celebrate with Some Then & Now Photos
Liza Minnelli Turns 80! – Let’s Celebrate with Some Then & Now Photos