Meet Mickey Deans, the man who shared a whirlwind romance with the legendary Judy Garland. Their marriage may have been brief, ending tragically after only three months with Garland’s untimely passing, but Deans’ life story goes far beyond being simply “Judy Garland’s last husband.” This article explores his often overlooked talents as a jazz pianist, his business acumen as a successful nightclub owner, and his enduring love for the iconic actress.
Born Michael DeVinko Jr. in 1934, Mickey Deans had already carved his own path in the world before crossing paths with Judy Garland. He was a talented jazz pianist, gracing the stages of some of New York City’s most popular nightclubs, including the famed Jilly’s. Deans possessed a sharp mind for business, transitioning from musician to successful nightclub manager, demonstrating his ability to thrive in the fast-paced world of entertainment.
In 1967, a fateful encounter brought Deans and Garland together. Their connection was instant, sparking a passionate love affair that culminated in their marriage in 1969. However, their relationship unfolded against the backdrop of Garland’s personal struggles. The legendary actress, grappling with addiction and the pressures of a decades-long career, faced significant challenges during this period.
Deans’ role in Garland’s life, especially during her final years, has been the subject of much debate. Some accounts paint him as an enabler who may have exacerbated her struggles with addiction. Others offer a different perspective, suggesting that Deans genuinely loved Garland and tried to support her through a turbulent time. The truth, as is often the case, is likely more complex, a mixture of good intentions and perhaps, misguided choices.
More Than a Husband: Deans’ Life and Legacy
To define Mickey Deanes solely by his marriage to Judy Garland would be an injustice. He was a multi-talented individual – a skilled musician, a savvy entrepreneur, and after Garland’s passing, a dedicated protector of her legacy. By understanding Deans’ life beyond his connection to the legendary actress, a richer, more complete picture emerges, revealing a man who was both flawed and undeniably fascinating.
Here’s what we know about Mickey Deans:
Born: September 24, 1934, in Garfield, New Jersey.
Marriage to Judy Garland: March 1969 to June 1969.
Though forever linked to Garland, Deans led a life full of its own unique experiences and accomplishments. He navigated the world of fame, fortune, and the harsh realities that often accompany them. His story, like a haunting melody, lingers, urging us to look beyond the surface and consider the complexities of a life lived in the shadow of a legend.
A May-December Romance: The Age Difference Between Judy Garland and Mickey Deans
When Mickey Deans entered Judy Garland’s life in 1966, the age difference between them became a topic of considerable public discussion. Garland, at 46, was already a Hollywood icon, forever etched in cinematic history as Dorothy from “The Wizard of Oz.” Deans, on the other hand, was a comparatively young 34 years old– a 12-year age gap that sparked conversation and speculation, particularly given that this was Garland’s fifth marriage.
The public wasn’t the only group buzzing about the relationship. Garland’s close friends and family also expressed concern. Having witnessed the actress navigate her share of personal challenges, the age gap raised questions about the stability and long-term compatibility of the relationship.
Despite the concerns, Garland declared that she was happier than she had ever been. Whether this happiness was genuine or influenced by other factors remains a point of discussion among those who studied Garland’s life. Unfortunately, their time together provided limited evidence to assess the long-term viability of the relationship.
Following Garland’s death, Deans penned a memoir detailing their time together. The book received mixed reviews, with some praising it as a heartfelt tribute to the late actress, while others criticized it as a potential attempt to capitalize on her fame and tragic passing.
Even today, decades later, the age difference between Garland and Deans continues to surface in discussions about their relationship. This enduring interest offers a glimpse into the societal norms of the time, highlighting how perspectives on age differences in relationships, particularly between older women and younger men, have evolved.
Fact vs. Fiction: Who Played Mickey Deans in “Judy?”
In the 2019 biopic “Judy,” actor Finn Wittrock portrays Mickey Deans, offering a glimpse into the final chapter of Judy Garland’s life. Wittrock, known for his roles in “American Horror Story” and other projects, delivers a nuanced performance that reflects the complexities of Deans’ relationship with the legendary star.
The film “Judy” doesn’t shy away from depicting the turbulent nature of their romance. It captures the excitement of their whirlwind courtship and marriage while alluding to the skepticism surrounding Deans and his intentions, especially from some members of Garland’s inner circle.
“Judy” provides glimpses into the dynamics between Garland and Deans, hinting at moments of both support and tension, particularly during a challenging period in London. While the film offers a fictionalized interpretation, it reflects the real-life complexities of their relationship.
Judy Garland’s Husbands: A Timeline of Love, Loss, and Legacy
Judy Garland’s life, both on and off-screen, was marked by a series of passionate, often tumultuous relationships. Throughout her lifetime, the iconic actress and singer walked down the aisle a total of five times. Each marriage, though often short-lived, played a role in shaping her personal and professional journey.
Here’s a closer look at the men who shared their lives with Judy Garland:
Husband
Marriage Dates
Notable Details
David Rose
1941-1944
Composer, first husband, marriage annulled, pressure from studio (MGM) led to at least one abortion
Vincente Minnelli
1945-1951
Director, father of Liza Minnelli, relationship marked by creative collaboration but also Minnelli’s controlling behavior
Sidney Luft
1952-1965
Showbusinessman, manager, father of Lorna Luft and Joey Luft, provided stability and managed her career but their relationship was often turbulent
Mark Herron
1965-1969
Actor, brief and tumultuous marriage, ended in annulment amidst allegations of domestic abuse
Mickey Deans
1969-1969
Musician & manager, last husband, married for only three months before Garland’s death, controversial figure accused of enabling her addictions
Garland’s desire for love and companionship was a recurring theme in her life. Each marriage offered periods of happiness and creative partnership, but also brought its share of heartache.
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