Liza Minnelli Says She Was “Ordered” to Sit in a Wheelchair at 2022 Oscars: “I Was Heartbroken”
Hollywood Reporter
by Mariel TurnerFebruary 20, 2026
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Liza Minnelli shared her candid reflections on her experience at the 2022 Oscars in her upcoming memoir *Kids, Wait Till You Hear This!* The actress revealed that she was unexpectedly forced to sit in a wheelchair during the ceremony, despite her preference to use a director’s chair. Minnelli expressed her dismay, feeling disrespected and misunderstood by the decision, which she believed was based on ageist assumptions rather than genuine safety concerns. She described how being seated lower made it difficult for her to read the teleprompter, leading to moments of stumbling over her words during her performance.
In her memoir, Minnelli also highlighted a moment of kindness from Lady Gaga, who comforted her after the incident and praised her resilience. However, Minnelli’s friend Michael Feinstein corroborated her claims, suggesting that she was “sabotaged” by those organizing the event. Feinstein explained that Minnelli had specifically requested to sit in the director’s chair to avoid drawing attention to her back issues, emphasizing her desire to maintain a strong public image.
The situation sparked a broader conversation about disability accommodations and the pressures faced by aging entertainers in Hollywood. While some defended the decision as a safety measure, others questioned whether it was made with Minnelli’s best interests at heart. Her memoir, set for release on March 10, promises to delve deeper into this experience and other pivotal moments in her life.
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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/20/2026