Sound Stage 5, Burbank Studios · “Everyone’s Friend, Jimmy Stewart”

TAYLOR (Dame Elizabeth Rosemond, later Taylor Warner, 1932–2011); and CHRISTY (George, charismatic fedora-wearing American columnist, of proud Greek origins, who wrote the weekly gossip piece “A Good Life” in The Hollywood Reporter for 26 years, and who was widely liked by the stars and wider artistic fraternity in California. He was also an avid food and wine connoisseur, and for many years held a legendary annual lunch at the Toronto Film Festival, 1927–2020).

An original typed and signed letter of invitation from Elizabeth Taylor (as “Elizabeth Taylor Warner”) to Hollywood columnist George Christy, inviting him to a celebratory gathering in honour of actor James “Jimmy” Stewart.

Typed on two sides of blue writing paper, with printed letterhead “Elizabeth Taylor Warner.” Addressed to George Christy at his Sunset Boulevard offices. Undated, but detailing a party to be held on Sunday, November 19, 1978 at Sound Stage 5, The Burbank Studios.

Signed in black ink at the foot of the second sheet: “Elizabeth Taylor Warner.”

Each sheet approx. 26.6cm x 18.2cm.

Content

The invitation refers to:

“A lovely party on Sound Stage 5 at the Burbank Studios to honor a lovely man. Everyone’s friend, Jimmy Stewart.”

The event was black tie, with valet parking and RSVP details provided. The tone is warm, personal and characteristic of Taylor’s social circle during her marriage to U.S. Senator John Warner (1976–1982).

Context & Provenance

This letter comes from the personal archives of George Christy, long-time columnist for The Hollywood Reporter, whose relationships with leading figures of the film industry were both professional and social. Items directly linking Elizabeth Taylor, Jimmy Stewart, and Christy are uncommon survivals of late-1970s Hollywood society.

Elizabeth Taylor’s signature appears bold and fluid, consistent with known examples from the period.

Condition

Good condition. Folds for mailing. Some overall creasing. Paper clip indent to top left corner. Red pen mark to lower edge of first sheet. Light discolouration to fore-edge of first sheet, and less so to second sheet. Please view images closely and ask if a more detailed report is required.

An attractive and personal piece of Hollywood social history linking three major figures of classical American cinema.