In the hallowed halls of the entertainment industry, where dreams are woven into stories and legends become our companions, few have traversed the glittering tapestry quite like Salah Bachir. As we eagerly await the release of his latest memoir, “First to Leave the Party: My Life with Ordinary People Who Happen to be Famous,” we are invited into a world where celebrities are not distant figures but friends, where ordinary encounters with the extraordinary become the tapestry of an extraordinary life.
Bachir’s memoir is a vivid testament to his remarkable journey through life, interwoven with stories of his interactions with some of Hollywood’s most iconic names. From intimate encounters with the enigmatic Marlon Brando to moments of grace with Princess Diana, Elizabeth Taylor, Muhammad Ali, Princess Margaret, Mary Tyler Moore, Sean Connery, Ella Fitzgerald, Doris Day, and a galaxy of others, this book promises an intimate glimpse into the world of stardom through the lens of a man who’s had a front-row seat to history.
But this memoir is more than just a collection of star-studded anecdotes. It is a reflection of Bachir’s unique perspective, revealing that to him, the famous are not mere celestial beings but ordinary people, extraordinary in their art, yet bound by the same humanity that defines us all. It’s an intimate journey, a party that Bachir was often the first to leave but never without leaving an indelible mark.
Co-authored with the acclaimed former New York Post and Daily News film critic Jami Bernard, this memoir is already making waves. It’s not just about the luminous names that grace its pages but also for being the first book to feature pronouns on the cover, an unmistakable sign of the progress we’ve made in embracing diversity and inclusion.
Salah Bachir’s memoir, “First To Leave the Party”
Set for release on October 17th, “First To Leave The Party” has already skyrocketed to the top of Amazon’s New Release list, a testament to the intrigue surrounding Bachir’s fascinating life journey. But it’s not just about popularity; it’s about giving back. A portion of the proceeds from the book will be donated to the LGBTQ+ rights program at Human Rights Watch, a cause close to Bachir’s heart.
In the entertainment industry, Bachir is held in the highest regard. Renowned celebrities have showered him with praise, speaking of his character, heart, and indomitable spirit. As Elton John and David Furnish declare,
“Salah Bachir is the biggest-hearted philanthropist with the rock-star life.”
Kim Cattrall commends his tireless championing of important causes. Alan Cumming, known for his wit, hails Bachir as the brightest star in his own constellation.
Salah Bachir with the gorgeous Kim Catrall
However, Bachir’s story isn’t confined to the glamour of Hollywood. An accomplished entrepreneur, he made his mark in publishing as the publisher of Canada’s first consumer video magazine, Videomania, and founded the trade publication Premiere. His 16-year tenure as the president of Cineplex Media and head of Cineplex Magazine, with over 4.3 million readers per issue at its zenith, speaks volumes of his influence.
Salah Bachir with the multi-talented performer, Eartha Kitt
Today, he spearheads the multimedia company Phamous Characters, created to manage his diverse ventures encompassing business, art, and philanthropy.
But there’s more to Salah Bachir than his contributions to the world of media and entertainment. His accomplishments extend beyond his impressive career. He’s received five honorary doctorate degrees from prestigious institutions, a testament to his business acumen and philanthropic work. He’s been featured in numerous publications, recognized as a member of the Order of Ontario and the Order of Canada, and proudly represented the LGBTQ+ community as the two-time Grand Marshal of the Toronto Pride Parade.
Salah Bachir with the former Governor General of Canada, His Excellency David Johnston. (Image courtesy from McGill University)
Among his numerous accolades, the Pride Toronto Lifetime Achievement Award, Canada LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce Legacy Award, and the Outstanding Volunteer Award from the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sport stand as a testament to his dedication to social justice and the arts.
A passionate philanthropist, Bachir has hosted over 100 charity luncheons and galas, demonstrating his commitment to giving back. He is also an avid art collector, boasting over 2,000 pieces from Canadian artists in his collection. A native of Lebanon, he currently calls Toronto his home, bringing his unique blend of influences to the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
As we anticipate the launch of “First To Leave The Party,” we invite you to explore the captivating world of Salah Bachir. It’s a life lived at the intersection of the ordinary and the extraordinary, where the stars shine not just on the red carpet but also in the moments that matter. His memoir promises to be a page-turner, an intimate glimpse into a life that’s been woven into the tapestry of entertainment history. It’s not just the story of stars; it’s the story of Salah Bachir, a star in his own right.
For more information on Salah Bachir and his memoir, visit his website: Salah Bachir.
As the pages of his memoir prepare to unfurl on October 17th, we can’t help but be captivated by the magnetic allure of Salah Bachir, a man who’s been “First To Leave The Party” but never forgotten in the annals of history.
