RIP David Cassidy

Every generation has its teen idols.

For the generation born at the end of the baby boom era, their teen idol was David Cassidy, star of The Partridge Family. David Cassidy passed away today. He was 67.

Cassidy, a second generation performer, was the son of the late Jack Cassidy and the stepson/co-star of Shirley Jones. At his heyday, he was known all over the world as both a musician and star of The Partridge Family.

Though he had a few personal and professional missteps after The Partridge Family was cancelled, he will be forever be remembered by a certain generation as their teen idol.

RIP David Cassidy. Gone but never forgotten.

 

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Growing Up Fisher: Musings, Memories, and Misadventures Book Review

A celebrity autobiography is a funny thing. It is part confessional, part life story and part point of view that can only be told uniquely by the celebrity who is writing the book.

Joely Fisher is the daughter of Connie Stevens and the late Eddie Fisher, in addition to being the half-sister of the late Star Wars icon Carrie Fisher. Recently, she has published an autobiography entitled, Growing Up Fisher: Musings, Memories, and Misadventures. Written candidly and openly, Ms. Fisher talks about what it was like to grow up in a famous Hollywood family and how that experience shaped her career and her adult life. She also writes about her sister, as only a devoted and loving family member can.

I really loved this book. I loved it because Ms. Fisher is not afraid to reveal her faults and her missteps. She is also talks about what is to be the daughter of Hollywood and how it affects how one’s view the world.

I recommend it.

Lady Bird Movie Review

The year before we graduate high school can often be described as trans-formative. Especially when we know that the last thing we want to do is going to college near home.

The new movie, Lady Bird, written and directed by actor/director/writer Greta Gerwig, is about Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson (Saoirse Ronan). Set in Northern California in 2002,  Lady Bird is starting her senior year of high school and wants nothing more than to go to college out-of-town. She does not get along with her equally strong-willed mother, Marion (Laurie Metcalf) and has a decent relationship with her father, Larry (Tracy Letts). As the year goes on, both Lady Bird will learn a few things about life and relationships.

I really enjoyed this movie. I enjoyed it because Lady Bird’s character arc and narrative feels universal. The struggle to find herself, the need to get away from home, the arguments with her parents, it all feels normal for a 17 year old girl.

I recommend it.

Lady Bird is presently in theaters. 

Add Another One To The List Part 2: Charlie Rose

When the Harvey Weinstein scandal broke in October, the nasty truth of our society and how women are treated was brought into the harsh light.

The newest member of this quickly growing list is respected journalist Charlie Rose.

Eight women have accused Mr. Rose of making unwanted sexual advances toward them.

As painful as the newest revelation is, I  believe that is absolutely necessary.  This is an evil in our society that must be confronted.  This is not simply about the power imbalance, but it is also about how women are seen and treated. The first step in resolving a problem is admitting that there is a problem. Now that we have been forced to admit that there is a problem, we must resolve the problem. Unfortunately, it will be easier said than done.