Władziu Valentino Liberace (May 16, 1919 – February 4, 1987), known mononymously as Liberace, was an American pianist, singer, and actor. A child prodigy and the son of Polish and Italian immigrants, Liberace enjoyed a career spanning four decades of concerts, recordings, television, motion pictures, and endorsements. At the height of his fame, from the 1950s to the 1970s, Liberace was the highest-paid entertainer in the world, with established concert residencies in Las Vegas, and an international touring schedule. Liberace embraced a lifestyle of flamboyant excess both on and off stage, acquiring the nickname "Mr. Showmanship".
Władziu Valentino Liberace (known as "Lee" to his friends and "Walter" to family) was born in West Allis, Wisconsin. His father, Salvatore ("Sam") Liberace (December 9, 1885 – April 1, 1977), was an immigrant from Formia in the Lazio region of central Italy. His mother, Frances Zuchowska (August 31, 1892 – November 1, 1980), was Polish. Liberace was born en caul, which in some cultures is considered indicative of genius, good luck, or the promise of a prosperous future. He had a twin, who died at birth. He had three siblings: a brother George, a violinist and his sister Angelina, and younger brother Rudy.