Shirley MacLaine turns 90 – she claims to have slept with two prime ministers
|At 90 years old, Shirley MacLaine displays no intention of slowing down.
Despite her advanced age, the Academy Award-winning actress remains active and is often spotted indulging in Martinis while dining out in Hollywood.
Throughout her seven-decade career, the Steel Magnolia star has witnessed a wealth of experiences. Her life stories are truly exceptional, setting her apart from her peers.
Shirley MacLaine has had an extensive career, starring in numerous memorable films during her prime. From “The Apartment” to “The Trouble With Harry,” “Two Mules For Sister Sara,” and “Guarding Tess” — the list goes on.
Even now, her portrayal in the 1989 classic “Steel Magnolias” remains a topic of conversation. However, in reality, Shirley is quite different from the short-tempered character she played, Ouiser Boudreaux.
“In 2019, she remarked, ‘Not much bothers me,'” showcasing her easygoing nature.
“I think attitudes are a choice. Anger is a choice, peace is a choice, sarcasm — which is what I’m good at — is a choice.”
As per MacLaine, her current life is “ideal.” She relishes the freedom to eat and sleep on her own schedule, while dedicating ample time to her New Mexico ranch, where she cherishes the company of her beloved rat terriers.
Born on April 24, 1934, Shirley embarked on her illustrious journey in showbiz on Broadway in New York. Her captivating performance in Alfred Hitchcock’s black comedy “The Trouble with Harry” in 1955 propelled her to global acclaim.
“He was a riot, truly,” remarked Shirley, then 21, of Hitchcock.
“I mean, thank heavens I wasn’t tall, slender, ethereal, stunning, and enigmatic, or I might have detested him.”
With over 50 films under her belt, she unquestionably stands as a titan in Hollywood’s annals. Despite being in her late 80s, she persists in her love for acting, as evidenced by her recent appearance in the television series “Only Murders in the Building.”
“I’ve remained in the industry without contemplating quitting because I desired to afford plane tickets for travel. I didn’t engage in Hollywood’s social scene,” she elaborated. “I’d prefer to explore countries I’ve yet to visit. So, when reflecting on my life, I might prioritize travel slightly over show business.”
Despite occasional ventures into Tinseltown, MacLaine finds solace primarily in nature. Her happiness lies not in keeping busy but in immersing herself in the wilderness surrounding her New Mexico ranch, where she has spent most of her recent time. Being close to nature replenishes her strength and energy, although she also enjoys residing in her Malibu home.
Shirley has even advocated for others to “let go and learn to merge with nature,” emphasizing the benefits of living in harmony with the natural world.
Shirley’s romantic relationships have long been a topic of intrigue.
The cherished actress shared nearly three decades of marriage with producer and businessman Steve Parker, with whom she welcomed a daughter in 1956. However, Shirley has candidly acknowledged having other relationships during their marriage.
Several years back, Sachi Parker made a striking revelation about her renowned mother. In her memoir, Sachi disclosed that Shirley had confided in her, revealing that Steve was not her biological father. Instead, she purportedly claimed that her father was an astronaut named Paul.
Shirley refuted the assertion, releasing a statement to counter the allegations.
“It’s a deeply distressing moment for me, both as a mother and as someone who holds truth in high regard. I’m utterly stunned and devastated by the largely fictitious statements made by my daughter. Throughout my autobiographies, I have spoken of her with love and honesty. It pains me to witness such a deceitful and opportunistic attempt from my daughter, for whom I’ve always wished nothing but the best,” she expressed.
As noted, Shirley has been candid about her unconventional perspectives on relationships and sexuality. During a 2011 interview with Oprah Winfrey, the 89-year-old delved into her relationship with her ex-husband, Steve Parker. The iconic actress made headlines once more in 2012 when she disclosed to the Daily Mirror that she had been intimate with not just one, but two prime ministers over the course of her lifetime.
In her autobiography “Out on a Limb,” Shirley recounted an encounter with a socialist politician she met at the Grand Hôtel in Stockholm, Sweden, whom she dubbed “Gerry.”
While many speculated that she was referring to Olof Palme, the Swedish Prime Minister at the time, he denied the allegations. Shirley also asserted that she had been intimate with Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau and Australian Foreign Minister Andrew Peacock.
When queried about Trudeau, she remarked:
“He was pleasant. Exceptionally intelligent and commanding. I adored his children; they were truly endearing. Mischievous, but utterly delightful.”
As for her claims about having had sexual relations with prime ministers, it’s important to remember that these are unverified statements made by Shirley herself. As a result, they may or may not be true.