Madeline Kahn Biographer William V. Madison

Author William V. Madison drops by to talk about Madeline Kahn: Being the Music – A Life, his fascinating biography of the beloved actress who won so many fans by combining her musical talent and flair for comedy in such iconic movies as Young Frankenstein and Blazing Saddles. Madison boasts excellent qualitfications to write this well-researched book. His experience includes serving as an Associate Editor of Opera News and a production assistant on the Broadway musical Rags. Madison is also a graduate of Columbia’s School of Creative Writing. His new biography gives readers a riveting behind-the-scenes look at Madeline Kahn’s personal and professional life. It’s an inspiring tale about the persistence and dedication of an insecure but highly talented artist. George Bettinger, from The Mom and Pop Shop Radio Show, will co-host.   

Although earning a degree in speech therapy and receiving training as an opera singer, Madeline Kahn became famous as a popular star of film, stage and TV. During the course of her illustrious career, Madeline appeared in over 40 films and television shows, garnering two Oscar nominations and four Golden Globe nominations. She also won a Tony Award as Best Actress in The Sisters Rosensweig and a People’s Choice Award in 1984 as Best New TV Performer as well as a Daytime Emmy Award in 1987 for her Outstanding Performance in an After School Special.  Madeline passed away in 1999 at age 57 -- but her impressive work on film continues to bring her new fans every day.