De-Lovely

As the finale of Porter’s life approaches, a symphony of memories begins to play out in the Indiana theater where his story first blossomed, as if directed by the heavenly Gabriel. His thoughts drift back to that pivotal evening when he crossed paths with Linda Lee Thomas, a stunning and freshly divorced woman who would soon become his cherished partner. Despite knowing about Cole’s sexuality, Linda found comfort in their passionate romance, characterized by affectionate displays and a profound bond.

On their wedding day, Linda shared her harrowing experiences of abuse from her previous marriage with Cole. In stark contrast, the love that Cole showered upon her provided a refuge for her heart. To mark the premiere of each new show, Linda gifted Cole an elegant Cartier cigarette case inscribed with his initials, a tradition that became a treasured part of their union.

However, this fairytale existence took a sharp turn when they moved to Hollywood. While Cole’s career reached new heights, Linda’s dreams of motherhood were crushed by a tragic miscarriage. Over the years, Cole’s indiscretions became increasingly bold, culminating in a scandalous photo shoot at a gay nightclub, which exposed both him and Linda to the threat of blackmail.

The pressures of their strained relationship pushed Linda to seek solace in Paris, leaving Cole devastated and alone. It was only after Cole experienced a near-fatal riding accident that Linda returned, her affection rekindled, but the trust she had lost due to his ongoing unfaithfulness was beyond repair. Still, she remained unwavering in her dedication to him, even as her health began to falter from emphysema.

To ensure Cole’s future after her eventual passing, Linda introduced him to her decorator and estate advisor, a woman who would ultimately capture his heart. Following Linda’s death in 1954, Cole persevered in his career until 1958, when a degenerative illness necessitated the amputation of his right leg, greatly affecting his creative endeavors.

Although he never composed again, Cole stayed involved in the productions of his earlier works, his legacy eternally connected to the woman who had been his partner, confidante, and muse. Cole’s life concluded in 1964 at the age of 73, leaving behind a rich oeuvre that would enchant audiences for years to come.

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 13:48