Liza Minnelli not over the rainbow for ’Oz’

Liza Minnelli not over the rainbow for ’Oz’

NEW YORK — “The Wizard of Oz” is a family favorite, but the film — celebrating its 70th anniversary this year — isn’t on Liza Minnelli’s must-watch list.

Minnelli says it’s tough to watch because of the fictional horrors her mother, Judy Garland, endures.

She said: “I just loved her so, and for some reason, ‘The Wizard of Oz’ bothers me when I see it. They do terrible things to her. ... That’s ’cause it’s my mom.”

Minnelli reflected on “The Wizard of Oz” while talking about her special, “Liza’s At The Palace.” It captures her 2008 Tony-winning play and airs on public-television stations this month.

The show ran more than two hours. When asked how she managed such a pace, the 63-year-old said: “You leave your pain shoes at the side of the stage.”

QB Drew Brees to reign over Bacchus for Carnival

NEW ORLEANS — Quarterback Drew Brees soon will be presiding over a new krewe.

The New Orleans Saints player — already considered royalty by many in this football-crazed city — has been named King of Bacchus.

Brees made the announcement via Twitter on Saturday. It was later confirmed by the Krewe Bacchus, known for its celebrity kings.

The Bacchus parade is set to roll Feb. 14, two days before Mardi Gras and a week after the Super Bowl. With the Saints 12-0 heading into Sunday’s game with the Atlanta Falcons, fans have high hopes their team will make it to the championship.

Today’s birthdays

Actor Hal Williams (“227,” “Sanford and Son”) is 71. Singer Joyce Vincent-Wilson of Tony Orlando and Dawn is 63. Actress Patty Duke is 63. Actress Dee Wallace is 61. Bassist Cliff Williams of AC/DC is 60. Singer-guitarist Mike Scott of The Waterboys is 51. Singer-whistle player Peter “Spider” Stacy of The Pogues is 51. Actress Cynthia Gibb (“Fame”) is 46. Singer Brian Dalyrimple of Soul for Real is 34. Actress Vanessa Hudgens (“High School Musical”) is 21.