Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. was a pioneering American theatrical producer who revolutionized the revue format by bringing it to unprecedented heights under the captivating slogan "Glorifying the American Girl". His remarkable career in the entertainment industry spanned decades, and it all began during the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893, where he managed the renowned bodybuilder Eugen Sandow, also known as the Great Sandow.
In 1896, Ziegfeld transitioned to theatrical management, and his innovative approach to promoting his stars would become a hallmark of his career. He achieved immense success with the French beauty Anna Held, creating a frenzy around her with clever press releases highlighting her luxurious milk baths, thus setting a new standard for star-making through strategic publicity.
In 1907, Ziegfeld produced his inaugural revue, The Follies of 1907, in New York City, inspired by the iconic Folies-Bergère of Paris but with a more family-friendly approach. The spectacular combination of semi-nudity, pageantry, and comedy proved to be a resounding success, and he continued to produce these annual events for an impressive 23 years, until the Great Depression brought an end to this era.
Throughout his illustrious career, Ziegfeld also produced several stage successes, including "Sally" in 1920, "Show Boat" in 1927, "Rio Rita" in 1927, and "Bitter Sweet" in 1929. His productions not only showcased the talents of numerous stars but also launched the careers of many notable performers, such as Marilyn Miller, Will Rogers, Leon Errol, Bert Williams, Fanny Brice, and Eddie Cantor.
In his personal life, Ziegfeld had a long-term relationship with Anna Held, but they never tied the knot due to her existing marriage to Maximo Carrera. In 1913, he married actress Billie Burke, with whom he had a daughter, Patricia Ziegfeld Stephenson.
