Regarded as one of the most famous and controversial celebrity photographers in the world, Ron Galella dubbed “paparazzo extraordinaire” by Newsweek, held court last week at famed Bookmarc on Bleecker St. to sign copies of his 11th book by the same name.
Back in the day he was one of the only shutter bugs vehemently following the stars, in particular First Lady Jackie O who took him to court twice for harassment with the case ending in a restraining order to keep away 150 feet.
I asked the snapper if all those legal troubles he got in with the First Lady was worth it. “Oh yeah. I wouldn’t be here if not. She gave me publicity money can’t buy.”
Which stars of today I asked are worth the paps time. “George Clooney is the new Cary Grant” said the 81 year old who talked so sweetly about his wife of many years. “And Taylor Swift is talented and beautiful.”
Well he would know. I guess that explains why a handful of superstar men in their 30’s including Jake Gyllenhaal and John Mayer have chased the young ingenue.
Still in the game a bit, Galella shoots the Tony’s and various exclusive parties and thinks Warren Beatty and Robert Redford’s stars shine bright.
Me too.
Check out all the other stars the famous pap has photographed at: www.rongalella.com