The relationship between Judy Garland and Marilyn Monroe, two iconic stars of their time, is explored in Sid Luft’s memoir, “Judy and I.” Luft, Garland’s third husband, left the memoir unfinished before his death in 2005, and it contains poignant details about the bond between Garland and Monroe. Excerpts from the book were featured in a recent issue of PEOPLE magazine.
According to Luft, Monroe’s death from an accidental drug overdose in 1962 deeply affected Garland. Monroe had been one of Garland’s “telephone pals” during her bouts of insomnia. Luft’s memoir includes an article Garland wrote for Ladies Home Journal in 1967, where she recounted a revealing conversation she had with Monroe at a Hollywood party. Monroe had followed Garland around the party, expressing her fear and seeking comfort.
Garland wrote that Monroe confided in her, saying, “I don’t want to get too far away from you. I’m scared!” Garland responded, “We’re all scared. I’m scared, too!” Monroe hoped they could talk more, but despite Garland’s offer to talk whenever Monroe needed, they never had the chance.
Garland reflected on Monroe’s tragic death, expressing regret that they never had the conversation Monroe had sought. Garland felt that Monroe’s overdose was likely unintentional, due to having too many pills and being left alone without support. This foreshadowed Garland’s own death from an accidental overdose in 1969.
Luft also shared memories of Monroe visiting their home and playing with Garland’s children, Lorna and Joey Luft, highlighting the personal connection and warmth between Monroe and Garland’s family.
Sid Luft’s memoir, “Judy and I,” also delves into the quieter, more personal moments Monroe shared with the Garland-Luft family. Luft describes Monroe as a “quiet presence,” often sitting by the fire without talking much. He remembers her as sweet but very unhappy. Monroe would chat with Garland and play with their children, Lorna and Joey. During these visits, Monroe confided in Garland about her marital frustrations, feeling disappointed and frustrated that her husband, whom Luft doesn’t name, did not know how to make love to a woman as she had hoped.
Their son, Joey Luft, now 61, has fond memories of Monroe’s visits. He recalls that Monroe would dress casually in jeans and eyeglasses, which made her look more like a “really pretty schoolteacher” than a famous sex symbol. Joey remembers being puzzled by her casual demeanor until his sister explained who Monroe was. He recounts a specific memory where Monroe visited their home, chatting with his parents about movies, directors, and other industry topics. It wasn’t until he saw Monroe on TV singing “Happy Birthday” to President Kennedy that he fully understood her star status.
These personal anecdotes from Luft and his son Joey provide a glimpse into Monroe’s life beyond the public eye, highlighting her struggles and the warmth she found in her friendship with Garland and her family.
