With the passing of one of LTG's earliest friends, I find myself not at a loss for words, but for words that are adequate. Usually I'm tasked with putting a 'fun and personal' spin on everything from soda and candy to fine wine and the White House, but right now I just can't shake the feeling that the party's gone quiet, and somehow all of this seems strangely small, and for the first time fragile.
To give some perspective, Jackie Collins appeared on Living the Gourmet before we had even launched as a website. At a time when we were struggling to make waves, she was one our first 'big' interviews. Her appearance here was part of our blog's final line of content, and the intro to our site's 'grand launch.' To put it as honestly as I can, a big piece of Living the Gourmet history passed with her.
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It was early April of 2014 when we received an email asking if we would be interested in interviewing Jackie, and if we would feature two of her latest releases. As decades long fans, to say we were shocked would be putting it lightly, and after rereading all of the Jackie Collins novels we had on hand as show prep, the interview was posted on April 21 st of 2014 to help promote what would be two of her final books, Confessions of a Wild Child and the Lucky Santangelo Cookbook, released in 2013 and 2014 respectively. Not only through the interview, but in all of our contact with Jackie and her team, she was exactly the person you see portrayed, someone who took herself just seriously enough to show that she meant business, while still finding time give the occasional 'Like' or comment to an up and coming food blogger.
For a glimpse of the Jackie we remember here at Living the Gourmet, here is the original April 21st interview.
Jackie, you will be very missed. You have inspired, encouraged and given energy to those who longed for a beacon. You will continue on through your work, your kindness and the grace and beauty you have shown in this world.
Thank you for being a part of my life.
With Love,
Catherine
xo
Angie@Angie's Recipes says
This is a lovely tribute to your friend, Catherine, and I am so sorry for your loss.
Dottie Sauchelli-Balin says
Dear Catherine,
We all lost a lovely and talented person too young. I remember your interview and that is what I thought of when I first heard about her passing.. You must be so grateful that you were able to interview her and become good friends. It is these times that we must remember and I know that she is still writing her books in Heaven...Prayers and God Bless her. Loved your interview..You shared some of her recipes from her cookbook and they were delicious. Thanks you...Blessings on a good rest of the week..
Dottie 🙂
Liz says
Such a loss. I didn't know that she wrote cookbooks, too. May she RIP. xo
Katherines Corner says
I was saddened by the news of her passing. I didn't realize your connection with her and I am sorry for your loss. I send you hugs!
Sandra Czosek says
I feel bad for her and that she had to hide it. A bad disease. Sandra Lee has it too.
AnnMarie says
So sorry for the loss of your friend.
Comedy Plus says
I remember this interview. That's when I called you famous. I know this is difficult for you. Big healing hugs.
Have a blessed day. ♥♥♥