Bette Midler on Getting Vaccinated, Her Vegas Wedding & Johnny Carson Audition

TL;DR

Bette Midler opens up about her new book and personal experiences during the pandemic.

Transcript

our first guest tonight is a a real live legend he's got two tonys three grammys three emmys and four golden globes in her breakfast nook and a new children's book this is it it's called the tale of the mandarin duck it's available now please welcome bette midler hi ben how are you it's great to see you thank you so much it's great to see you too a... Read More

Key Insights

• 📽️ Bette Midler continues to maintain a creative outlet even amidst pandemic challenges, collaborating on projects that fulfill her artistic desires.
• 🥳 The intimate wedding of her daughter reflects a trend towards smaller, more personal celebrations during the pandemic.
• 🥰 Bette's spontaneous Vegas wedding serves as a contrast to modern traditions, showcasing how love can thrive in simplicity.
• 🛟 Her new book, inspired by real-life events, emphasizes the beauty of unexpected encounters in our lives.
• 😃 Vaccination experiences are a shared point of relief and joy, highlighting the importance of community health.
• 🎑 Bette’s nostalgic journey reflects an evolving career path, as she navigates the entertainment scene and personal milestones.
• 🏋️ The conversation illustrates the significant emotional weight of shared human experiences during turbulent times.

Questions & Answers

Q: What inspired Bette Midler to write "The Tale of the Mandarin Duck"?

Bette was inspired by a friend who is a birder and told her about the Mandarin duck phenomenon in Central Park. After seeing a photo of the breathtaking duck and hearing its intriguing story, she felt compelled to write a children's book about it. This collaboration allowed her to channel her love for writing into a beautiful narrative for kids.

Q: How did Bette Midler cope with the pandemic?

During the pandemic, Bette remained surprisingly busy by participating in various benefits and projects, including her book. Despite the challenges of isolation, she focused on creativity and maintaining a sense of connection with her family and friends, giving her a sense of purpose and joy during difficult times.

Q: What was unique about Bette Midler's daughter's wedding?

Bette's daughter had an intimate wedding with just eleven attendees, which allowed the family to contribute creatively to the event. Bette handled the flowers while her husband took care of the food, making the ceremony a heartfelt, DIY family affair. Despite the small gathering, they all felt fortunate to celebrate love in a meaningful way.

Q: What was Bette Midler's original wedding like?

Bette described her Vegas wedding as very spontaneous, focusing on the simplicity of the moment. With only two people, she and her husband eloped with an Elvis impersonator officiating. It was a fun experience, devoid of any elaborate plans, contrasting the more detailed ceremony that her daughter had.

Q: How does Bette Midler feel about her vaccination experience?

Bette expressed relief after receiving her COVID-19 vaccinations, noting mild side effects of tiredness and a sore arm. She conveyed a sense of liberation now that she's vaccinated, ready to embrace new experiences while acknowledging the ongoing complexities of life during the pandemic.

Q: What does the Mandarin duck symbolize in Bette Midler's book?

In her book "The Tale of the Mandarin Duck," the duck serves as a symbol of beauty and the unexpected. The duck brought the community together to experience joy and wonder, illustrating how a single presence can unite and uplift those around it, despite adversity or strangeness.

Q: Why did Bette Midler mention her history with "The Tonight Show"?

Bette recalled her debut on "The Tonight Show" with Johnny Carson, highlighting the circumstances that led her to deliver a remarkable audition, which ultimately changed her career. She highlighted this experience to reflect on how the entertainment industry has shaped her path and her growth as an artist.

Q: What are Bette Midler's thoughts on singing at family events?

Bette humorously admitted that her daughter has always requested that she refrain from singing, indicating a playful family dynamic. While her daughter may not appreciate her vocal performances, Bette values family gatherings where they create memories together, revealing the affection that still binds them despite the teasing.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Bette Midler reflects on her busy pandemic life, maintaining positivity and creativity despite challenges, including her daughter's small wedding.

• She shares insights on her new children's book, "The Tale of the Mandarin Duck," inspired by a real duck that captivated the public.

• The conversation shifts to nostalgic moments, including her memorable appearances on "The Tonight Show" and her spontaneous Vegas wedding.