After a remarkable 41-year tenure in the world of drag performance, Frank Marino, renowned as Ms. Las Vegas, is preparing to bid adieu to the stage. The 62-year-old entertainer, who has impersonated the late Joan Rivers with unparalleled zeal, reflects on his illustrious career just as he prepares for his final performances in Las Vegas.
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Since stepping into the spotlight in 1984, Marino has established himself as a titan of entertainment, performing an impressive 25,000 shows for over two million patrons. His latest performances come to a close at Virgin Hotels, marking the end of a significant chapter in the bustling landscape of Las Vegas entertainment. Despite the glamour and glitz, Marino’s journey began rather humbly, and he credits Rivers for being pivotal in launching his career.
Initially aspiring to become a doctor, Marino’s path took an unexpected turn when he first donned women’s attire for Halloween. A chance encounter while impersonating Diana Ross set off a chain of events that would lead him to perform Joan Rivers’ iconic acts. “That’s how I fell into it,” he said, expressing gratitude for the opportunities that arose in the vibrant Las Vegas scene.
Throughout his storied career, Marino has not only graced the stages of prominent hotels but also made appearances in various television shows and films, including roles in *Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous* and *The Nanny*. His remarkable impact on the city is evident, with a street named in his honour and his likeness often seen on taxis throughout Las Vegas.
Marino shared that his legacy is one of joy and entertainment, a sentiment he hopes to leave behind as he transitions to a new phase of life focused on content creation. Despite this shift, he has not entirely ruled out the possibility of stepping back onto the stage in the future. “There’s no better high in the world,” he remarked when discussing the exhilaration of performing live.
Reflecting on the evolution of drag culture, Marino noted how much has changed since he first entered the scene. While he acknowledges the vital role RuPaul played in mainstreaming drag, he noted a shift towards individual personas among new performers. Unlike earlier performers who focused primarily on celebrity impersonation, today’s artists tend to craft unique characters and narratives, reflecting a broader range of experiences.
Yet, the journey has not been without its challenges. In the mid-1980s, Marino faced a significant setback when Rivers, the woman whose career he was emulating, sued him for $5 million over allegations of copyright infringement. The lawsuit garnered media attention, notably being captured by *A Current Affair*, but ultimately concluded with an amicable settlement. Marino and Rivers later became friends, and he often injects humour into their past legal entanglements in his performances.
As he prepares for his last shows, set for the end of May, the loss of his structured routine is a daunting prospect for Marino. “I’m already making myself crazy thinking about my first day without a schedule,” he admitted, underscoring the powerful connection that exists between an entertainer and their audience. Despite this apprehension, he reassured himself that his identity as Frank Marino will remain intact, regardless of his professional pursuits.
As the curtains draw on his extraordinary career, Frank Marino leaves behind an indelible mark on the Las Vegas Strip and the world of drag entertainment. He represents not only the joy and laughter associated with his performances but also the resilience and evolution of an art form that has captured the hearts of so many. Whether he truly retires or finds his way back onto the stage remains to be seen, but what is certain is that his contributions to the artistic landscape will not be forgotten.