Wayne Newton: The Icon Of Las Vegas Entertainment

Wayne Newton IS Las Vegas. It's true! He has made an indelible mark on the entertainment scene of this vibrant city. Known as Mr. Las Vegas, Mr. Entertainment, and the Midnight Idol, Wayne is a beloved figure. His signature song "Danke Schoen," featured in the classic 1986 movie "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," is just one of many hits that have solidified his status. For those who grew up during the 1960s to 1980s, songs like "Red Roses for a Blue Lady," "Daddy, Don't You Walk So Fast," and "Years" may evoke fond memories of this legendary performer. Today, at 78 years old, Wayne Newton continues to captivate audiences and remains a symbol of resilience and talent in the world of entertainment.

Born on April 3, 1942, in Norfolk, Virginia, Wayne's journey began when he learned to play the guitar, piano, and steel guitar at the tender age of six. After moving to Newark, Ohio, he started singing with his brother Jerry. Due to Wayne's severe asthma, the family relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, in 1952, seeking a drier climate. As part of the duo known as the Rascals in Rhythm, they performed at prestigious venues like the Grand Ole Opry and even for President Dwight D. Eisenhower, showcasing their early talent and laying the foundation for Wayne's future success.

In 1958, Wayne's life took a pivotal turn when a booking agent spotted him and his brother during a performance. This led them to audition in Las Vegas, where they performed an astonishing six shows a day for five consecutive years. By September 1962, Wayne had begun to make a name for himself, appearing on the iconic "Jackie Gleason Show" multiple times. He even ventured into acting, portraying Andy on the renowned series "Bonanza" during the early 1960s, further expanding his reach in the entertainment industry.

Biographical Overview

Wayne Newton's career skyrocketed when he signed a deal with Capitol Records in 1963, releasing his first album featuring the hit "Danke Schoen." The song reached number 13 on the charts, marking the beginning of his successful music career. He quickly became a favorite among Las Vegas headliners such as Lucille Ball, George Burns, and Jack Benny, who often chose him as their opening act. Wayne's transformation from a youthful singer with a higher-pitched voice to a deeper, more masculine sound defined his evolution as an artist. By 1994, he celebrated a remarkable milestone, performing his 25,000th solo show in Las Vegas, a testament to his enduring appeal and dedication to his craft.

In 1999, Wayne signed a groundbreaking 10-year deal with the Stardust, becoming the first artist to secure a "headliner in residence" arrangement. This innovative format paved the way for other stars like Celine Dion and Jennifer Lopez to follow in his footsteps. After his last performance at the Stardust in April 2005, just before the iconic casino's demolition, Wayne briefly took a hiatus to spend quality time with his family. However, he returned to the stage with his "Mr. Las Vegas" show at Caesars Palace in 2019, celebrating 60 years of performing in Las Vegas.

During the summer of 2020, Wayne stepped into a new role as the spokesperson for Caesars Entertainment, promoting the reopening of hotels and casinos amidst the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. His ability to adapt and thrive in changing circumstances exemplifies his resilience and commitment to the entertainment industry.

Passion for Arabian Horses

Wayne Newton's love for horses has been a lifelong passion. He received his first horse in sixth grade and often refers to horses and music as the two great loves of his life. Since 1969, Wayne has been breeding Arabian horses, starting with the stallion Naborr. As of 2014, he has created six generations of over 700 foals, with an impressive 96 of them being champions. His breeding program, Aramus Arabians, is named after his champion stallion, Aramus. This dedication to breeding has earned him several accolades, including the Breeder of the Year award in 1996 and the Arabian Horse Breeders' Association Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.

Even at 78 years old, Wayne remains actively involved in managing his horse breeding program. He carefully decides which horses to keep and which to sell, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to the equestrian world. His passion for Arabian horses not only enriches his life but also highlights his dedication to preserving the beauty and grace of this majestic breed.

Overcoming Legal and Financial Challenges

Throughout his career, Wayne Newton has faced numerous legal and financial challenges. From 1980 to 1982, he co-owned the Aladdin Hotel, but the partnership ended in lawsuits, leading to significant financial strain. He faced a $20 million debt after suing NBC for libel due to false claims about his association with the Mafia. In 1992, Wayne filed for bankruptcy, which included a $341,000 lien from the IRS. However, by 1999, he managed to rebound and regain his financial stability.

In 2005, the IRS filed another lien against him, claiming he owed $1.8 million, but his attorney contended that the IRS actually owed him money. Later, in 2009, the Oakland County International Airport in Michigan alleged that Wayne owed over $60,000 in unpaid parking fees for a plane he had parked there. Despite these challenges, Wayne has demonstrated resilience and the ability to overcome obstacles that have come his way.

The Legacy of Casa de Shenandoah

Wayne Newton's property, Casa de Shenandoah, holds a special place in his heart. Since 1966, he has amassed 40 acres in Las Vegas, which includes eight homes, a horse hospital, stables, bird enclosures, and man-made lakes. By 2010, he sold 80% of the property to a developer for $19.5 million, intending to convert it into a museum and theme park. Unfortunately, those plans fell through, leading to a lawsuit where the developer claimed Wayne refused to vacate his home. In December 2012, the property was approved for sale by the Bankruptcy Court Judge and eventually sold for just over $5 million in 2019.

Despite the ups and downs, Wayne Newton's legacy as a performer and his love for horses remain strong. His journey from a young boy with a passion for music to an iconic figure in Las Vegas is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication. Wayne continues to inspire others with his remarkable story and unwavering spirit.

Personal Life and Family

Wayne Newton has experienced two marriages and has two daughters. His first marriage was to Elaine Okamura in 1968, with whom he had a daughter named Erin, born on July 25, 1976. However, Wayne and Elaine divorced in 1985. In 1994, he married Kathleen McCrone, and they welcomed their daughter Lauren on April 19, 2002. Despite the challenges in his career, Wayne has always prioritized family, cherishing the moments spent with his loved ones.

Wayne Newton's story is one of resilience, talent, and passion. From his early days in music to his status as a Las Vegas icon, he has left an indelible mark on the entertainment world. As he continues to perform and share his love for Arabian horses, Wayne's legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.