Bootleg Betty
Saturday Matinee: Gypsy Starring Bette Midler
By Mister D
January 11, 2025
Synopsis of Bette Midler’s “Gypsy” (1993 TV Movie):
The television adaptation of “Gypsy,” directed by Emile Ardolino and starring Bette Midler as Mama Rose, follows the life story of the legendary burlesque performer Gypsy Rose Lee. Based on the Broadway musical inspired by Lee’s memoirs, the film captures the journey of Rose Hovick, an ambitious stage mother who relentlessly pushes her daughters into the limelight. Initially focused on her younger daughter June, Rose’s dreams shift to her older, more reserved daughter, Louise, after June elopes. Louise transforms from a shy, awkward girl into the famous striptease artist Gypsy Rose Lee. The narrative explores themes of ambition, maternal love, and the cost of fame, set against the backdrop of vaudeville’s decline and the rise of burlesque.
Fanfare:
Critical Reception: The film was well-received, with critics praising Midler’s dynamic performance. Jule Styne, the composer, was particularly emotional about Midler’s portrayal, saying, “I’m so excited. I just watched a tape of the movie and I cried. It is the most outstanding singing and acting performance I’ve seen on the screen within memory.”
Ratings and Awards: The TV movie was a ratings hit for CBS, garnering 12 Emmy nominations and securing Bette Midler a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television in 1994.
Musical Legacy: This version is noted for being one of the more faithful adaptations to the stage production, including the full orchestration and live singing, which was a significant step for television musicals at the time.
Trivia:
Casting: Bette Midler was considered the perfect fit for Mama Rose by the show’s creators due to her brashness and vulnerability, traits essential to the character.
Previous Attempts: There were earlier attempts to bring “Gypsy” back to the screen, but it was Midler’s involvement that finally convinced the rights holders to allow another adaptation.
Cameos and Replacements: Linda Hart, who played Mazeppa, was one of Midler’s former “Harlettes.” Also, there was a change in casting where Barbara Harris was initially set to play Tessie Tura but was replaced.
Directorial Link: Emile Ardolino had intended to direct Midler in “Sister Act,” but when she left that project, he directed her in “Gypsy,” which was his last film before passing away.
Quotes:
Bette Midler on Playing Mama Rose: “I’ve always wanted to play that character. I’d never really thought about where I would play it. I just hoped to play it. I would have played it in stock, if I had had the chance. It’s a great part. The score is extraordinary. The writing is just incomparable.”
From the Script: Some iconic lines include, “Everything’s coming up roses!” which is emblematic of Rose’s relentless optimism and drive.
This rendition of “Gypsy” stands out for its fidelity to the original musical and for Bette Midler’s commanding performance, which has been celebrated as one of her career highlights.
