Wow, what a way to start my morning. While looking on the wire for recent photos of Blondie performing in London, I stumbled across these incredible shots by Ron Galella I had never seen before of Debbie Harry with Richard Gere and Matt Dillon at the Art Against AIDS cocktail party and auction at Sotheby's in New York City from June 4, 1987. All three look fantastic -- Matt was just 23, Debbie was 41 and at the top of the dance charts with her "In Love With Love" remix, and Richard was 36. It's especially fun to see Deb -- completely Sprouse-d out -- with Richard as she had auditioned for "American Gigolo" (Lauren Hutton ultimately won the part) and will forever be associated with the film with the mega hit "Call Me."
The event was noteworthy because it was the early days of celebrities lending their name to the fight against AIDS, which The New York Times noted in its write-up the following morning:
Never underestimate the power of a movie star. Especially a superstar like Elizabeth Taylor. Once she attached her name to the American Foundation for AIDS Research, it became not only acceptable but desirable for other celebrities to become involved in the cause.
Her presence at a benefit party brings in both the crowds and the donations. And so it was last night when an event called Art Against AIDS opened with a cocktail reception for nearly 1,000 people at Sotheby's. Mayor Koch showed up briefly, but the highlight of the evening was the appearance of the actress, sparkling in beaded green silk and diamonds, to accept a check for $400,000 from Leo Castelli, the art dealer. "It's just a modest beginning," he said.
"I just love men with checks," Taylor said.
Read on HERE.
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