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The great Jim Bailey has died – a tribute


Jim Bailey died over the weekend at the age of 77.

His talent was so immense and I was so glad to be able to see him in person a few years ago at the annual S.T.A.G.E. benefit for AIDS Project LA.

Jim, who died of complications from pneumonia, was a gifted actor and singer who specialized in performing in drag and was best known for his amazing impressions of the likes of Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand.

Ed Sullivan gave Bailey his first real national television exposure and the performer went on to appear on such shows as The Dean Martin Show, The Carol Burnett Show, The Mike Douglas Show, The Tonight Show, The Merv Griffin Show and Here’s Lucy as Streisand, Garland, Peggy Lee or Phyllis Diller or, on occasion, himself.

“From the first minute on stage when I am Barbra Streisand, I look like her, talk like her, I have her mannerisms and sing like her,” he said in an interview on his website, jimbaileyweb.com. “I am Barbra, not an imitation, lip-syncing or a witty impression. When I made my Las Vegas debut in 1970, I opened doors for all the guys who came to town in dresses.”

For Bailey, it all began with Phyllis Diller.

“When I first moved to Los Angeles, I met Phyllis,” he said. “I became a camp follower of hers – sort of followed her around. I mimicked her at parties – did one-liners. Someone advised incorporating her into my act, which I did, but not for several years.”

Below, I’ve posted several videos of Jim Bailey performing and showing the world what true talent is.

Rest in peace and thanks so much for the memories.




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Comments

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2 Remarks

  1. June 3rd, 2015 at 6:55 am
    K. Martinez says:

    So much talent. Rest in Peace, Jim Baily.

  2. Mr. Bailey was truly a remarkable talent. Was grateful to have seen him perform at his peak, a long time ago. May he rest in peace.
    Robert

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