John Meyer, popularly known for being a musician in the field of musical theater and Judy Garland's ex-lover, has died at the age of 86; find out the cause of his death and his love story with the legendary actress below.
The musician's niece, Rachel Trousdale, confirmed the tragic news to People Magazine, saying Meyer passed away in mid-February after suffering from complications due to a surgery. It was not stated what type of operation the playwright underwent.
Trousdale described her uncle as someone who love to share the story of his life, especially his adventures, music, and more.
Meyer was also remembered as a person who loves helping other artists for them to have connections and opportunities.
"He loved wine and traveling to France and had an encyclopedic knowledge of classic films and music of his era. Just whistle a bar of any tune, and he knew what it was," his niece described.
John Meyer, Judy Garland's Love Story
Meyer spoke in an interview with the outlet back in 2019 when he recalled his relationship with the late actress.
He noted that he was in his late 20s while Garland was 46 years old when they first met through a mutual friend.
Garland was one of Hollywood's greatest actresses, but even though she amassed massive fame and popularity early on in her career, there was a time in her life where she suffered from an unfortunate situation.
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The actress later moved in with Meyer and his parents at an apartment in New York. Garland was at her lowest point as she was broke, had just gotten a divorce from Mark Herrron, and even struggled with addiction.
"Her reality was that she would rely on the kindness of strangers," Meyer said.
Thanks to her kindhearted lover, Meyer booked her gigs around the city who would pay her $100 and a cab fare. At that point, he became Garland's manager, "agent, her lover, her companion, the shoulder she could lean on."
Judy Garland Death
The last time they saw each other was in January 1969, it was a few months before she passed away on June 22 of that year due to an accidental overdose.
Meyer was able to bid goodbye by attending her funeral.
"She was the most marvelous fun... That's what nobody really speaks about," he recalled.
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