Brendan Da Costa articles

Gypsy Rose Lee was one of the most mesmerizing burlesque dancers in history—but though she bared all, her darkest truths remained hidden.

Sophie Tucker had a legendary stage career, yet tragically spent her old age ailing and alone. But her final request was the most heartbreaking of all.

Benny Hill was the English comedian whose bawdy humor titillated and tickled audiences to tears. But, behind the scenes, his innocence was almost heartbreaking.

Big Mama Thornton was the 20th century blues singer who became the first real rock and roller. Her life, however, was all blues.

Will Hay was an English comedian famous for his blundering schoolmaster character. But, off-screen, he hid many demons and shocking secrets.

John Henry “Doc” Holliday was the dentist-turned-outlaw who gambled and gunned his way across the Wild West. But there was one enemy he couldn’t outrun.

Nothing gave socialite Margot Asquith greater pleasure than shocking high society—until she went too far.

When Fanny Murray got involved with her richest client yet, she thought she’d hit the jackpot. Instead, he dragged her into the twisted world of the Hellfire Club.

According to rumors, Mama Cass from The Mamas & The Papas died from choking on a sandwich—but the dark truth was even more tragic.