Bootleg Betty
Rare Video From Boodles BonBon: Bette Midler Interview On Parkinson 1981 – Divine Madness
By Boodles BonBon
Jan 18, 2026
Parkinson – Bette Midler segment of the interview only. Omar Sharif, Bette Midler, Professor J.K.Galbraith (Jan 21, 1981) #DivineMadness #BetteMidlerInterview #AViewFromABroad
While her most famous early appearance was in 1979 (when she discussed her beginnings at the Continental Baths and her love for her gay fans in hilariously candid style), there are references to her on the show around the early 1980s.
Divine Madness (1980) was Bette Midler’s electrifying concert film, capturing her larger-than-life stage show from performances at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. It blended over-the-top comedy routines, raunchy humor, dazzling costumes, and powerhouse performances of songs like “Big Noise From Winnetka,” “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “Stay With Me,” and more. Directed by Michael Ritchie, the film showcased her as the ultimate entertainer — trashy, flashy, and heavenly — and received solid reviews for capturing her infectious high-energy vibe.
