Liza Minnelli Claims Academy Forced Her to Sit in Wheelchair at 2022 Oscars

Rolling Stone Music

by Kory Grow

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Liza Minnelli has claimed in her new memoir that the Academy forced her to sit in a wheelchair during her appearance at the 2022 Oscars, despite her preference to use a director’s chair. In *Kids, Wait Till You Hear This!*, she describes feeling humiliated and disrespected when she was ordered to sit in a wheelchair for safety reasons, which she dismissed as “bullshit.” Minnelli, who appeared with Lady Gaga to celebrate the 50th anniversary of her Oscar-winning performance in *Cabaret*, struggled to read from the teleprompter due to her lower vantage point in the wheelchair. However, Gaga stepped in to support her, earning praise for her kindness and professionalism. Minnelli’s memoir details how she was initially excited about the opportunity but felt degraded when the Academy insisted on the wheelchair. During her appearance, she stumbled over her words, prompting Gaga to reassure her, “I got this,” and later whisper, “I got you.” Despite the challenges, Minnelli reflected on the experience philosophically, drawing inspiration from her upbringing by Judy Garland and Vincente Minnelli, who taught her to remain gracious under pressure. She also noted

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Originally published on Rolling Stone Music on 2/20/2026