Summary
"When I Stop Talking, You’ll Know I’m Dead" is the larger-than-life memoir of Jerry Weintraub, the legendary Hollywood producer, talent manager, and all-around showman. Co-written with Rich Cohen, the book chronicles Weintraub’s improbable journey from the streets of the Bronx to the inner circles of power and fame.
Weintraub's story begins with his childhood in the Bronx, raised in a close-knit Jewish family. His father, a gem salesman, instilled in him a knack for business and the art of the deal. Jerry’s early ventures, from delivering dry cleaning to running a dice game in the Air Force, reveal his entrepreneurial spirit and hustler's mentality. He recounts his early career managing singers, animal acts, and magicians, and building Directional Enterprises, which ultimately led him to the Four Seasons.
A turning point arrives when Weintraub sets his sights on managing Elvis Presley, culminating in a million-dollar deal with Colonel Tom Parker. This collaboration catapults Weintraub into the big leagues of the entertainment industry, followed by a long and successful stint with Frank Sinatra. These experiences taught him the value of packaging talent, attracting crowds, and delivering unforgettable experiences.
The narrative delves into Weintraub’s foray into film production, beginning with Robert Altman's "Nashville". Despite initial skepticism from studio executives, Weintraub's unwavering belief in the project led him to produce a string of successful and iconic films, including "Oh, God!", the Karate Kid series, and the Ocean's trilogy. The author also details the challenges and triumphs of forming his own film company, the Weintraub Entertainment Group.
Throughout the memoir, Weintraub emphasizes the importance of relationships. His friendships with figures like George H.W. Bush, Lew Wasserman, and countless celebrities underscore his belief that personal connections are more valuable than contracts or politics. He fondly recalls his close bond with Jane Morgan, his wife and a talented singer, who broadened his horizons and helped him navigate the world of high society. He also delves into his relationships with his children and grandchildren.
Weintraub reflects on his mistakes and failures with candor and humor. He shares the lessons he learned from his professional setbacks, including the downfall of the Weintraub Entertainment Group, and emphasizes the importance of resilience and reinvention.
"When I Stop Talking, You’ll Know I’m Dead" is more than just a celebrity memoir; it's a guide to success, a tribute to the power of relationships, and a celebration of a life lived to the fullest.