Vince Eager, a notable figure in the rock and roll industry, recently shared his encounter with a Hollywood legend that cost him a potential career in the movie industry.
According to Vince, he was propositioned by Burt Lancaster, an Oscar-winning actor, who promised him a role in a film if he spent the night with him in his hotel.
However, when Vince declined the offer, the movie opportunity immediately disappeared.
This incident took place back in 1958 when Vince was a teenage singer performing at a nightclub in London.
During one of his shows at Churchills nightclub in Soho, Vince spotted someone in the audience who strongly resembled Burt Lancaster.
To his surprise, shortly after his performance, Vince received a phone call from the maitre d' informing him that Mr. Lancaster had invited him for a drink.
Overwhelmed by the idea of meeting one of his favorite actors, Vince accepted the invitation and engaged in a conversation with Burt.
It was during this chat that Burt mentioned a new movie he was working on, which required a young and attractive male lead.
He believed Vince would be perfect for the role.
However, things quickly took a dark turn when Burt suggested they continue their discussion over breakfast at his hotel and placed his hand on Vince's thigh while saying, “Do you understand?”
Feeling increasingly uncomfortable, Vince excused himself from the table and immediately called his manager, Larry Parnes, to seek advice.
Larry warned him to stay away from Burt's hotel and instructed him to take a taxi home without any further contact.
Despite this warning, Vince's desire for a movie career tempted him to return to Burt's table and inform him that he would be available to meet at 8:30 am the next morning.
However, Burt responded angrily, stating that if Vince didn't go with him immediately, he would not be considered for the movie.
It is worth noting that Burt Lancaster, known for his rugged and tough persona, was investigated in the 1950s for homosexual behavior on the orders of FBI Chief J Edgar Hoover.
Released documents in 2000 revealed Lancaster's intense s** life, including affairs with men.
Vince, shocked by this revelation, shared how the recent Harvey Weinstein scandal reminded him of his encounter with Burt and highlighted the prevalence of s**ual abuse and power dynamics in the entertainment industry.
This was not the only time Vince lost a career opportunity due to refusing unwanted advances.
In 1957, after finishing second in the World Skiffle Championship with his group The Vagabonds, Vince secured a recording contract with Parlophone.
However, when producer and writer Norman Newell, who had worked with renowned artists like Shirley Bassey and Matt Monro, made advances towards Vince, he sarcastically asked if he could bring his girlfriend along.
This response led to a fallout with Norman, resulting in Vince never recording for Parlophone again.
Despite these setbacks, Vince went on to have a successful career, portraying Elvis Presley in a West End musical and working as a cruise director.
He continues to perform with his rock and roll show and will celebrate the 60th anniversary of his skiffle success with a concert in Radcliffe on Trent on December 28.
Tickets for the event can be purchased at Pen2paper or by calling 0115 933 3009.
In conclusion, Vince Eager's experience sheds light on the dark side of the entertainment industry, where young artists often face difficult decisions and unwanted advances.
While he may have missed out on a movie career and a hit record, Vince remains proud of his ability to resist such advances.
