(JTA) — David Gest, a Jewish reality television star in Britain and the ex-husband of actress Liza Minnelli, was found dead in a five-star London hotel.
Police and paramedics were called to the luxury Four Seasons Hotel early on Tuesday to find the 62-year-old Gest’s body, The Sun, a British tabloid, reported.
Gest, a former contestant on Britain’s “Celebrity Big Brother,” married Minnelli in 2002 but they separated after a year. The couple officially divorced in 2007.
A Los Angeles native who became a music producer, Gest had been due to tour the United Kingdom in a musical show called “David Gest Is Not Dead, But Alive with Soul” starting in York on July 1. He also was known for being a close friend of the late pop superstar Michael Jackson.
According to The Sun, his company, David Gest Limited, accumulated a $500,000 debt after he became addicted to gambling in his final months.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
