Published: January 9, 2024

JULIEN’S AUCTIONS

THE ICON NEWSLETTER

6.15.23

Over the years Julien’s Auctions has offered a number of Madonna’s personal handwritten “to-do” lists. Artifacts like these present a one-of-a-kind window into the day-to-day lives of the stars we love (even in the case of Madonna, who has been the subject of seemingly endless media coverage, books, and several feature-length documentaries). Some of the revelations are mundane, but that’s part of the fun. When do we ever get to see Madonna being mundane?

Did you know that on Monday, June 20 circa 1990 Madonna was dealing with the fact that her toilet and shower head were “working weird?” Or that she was trying to locate dancer Rudolph Nuryev, and actors Dirk Bogarde, Michael York, and Jeanne Moreau? That in 1996 she wanted to acquire rights to a property called Going Down (likely the novel by Jennifer Belle)? Or that on May 12, circa 1992, her to-do list said “M-Mel-Missy-Color Me Mine LaBrea Melrose.” Was she going to paint pottery with her assistants, Melissa Crow and Missy Coggiola?! Madonna’s to-do lists tell us about her business dealings, creative ventures, house maintenance problems, preferred snacks, social encounters, and more. Here are some of the most intriguing snippets…

”Herb doesn’t want that shot used – Liz says don’t back down – he’s trying to lie and say it must be a shot that’s been used.”

“Herb” likely refers to photographer Herb Ritts, who shot many of the most famous photographs of Madonna, including the cover of her album True Blue (Sire, 1986), and “Liz” undoubtedly refers to Liz Rosenberg, her longtime publicist.

“Told Stephen to shut up! Said it first – nothing since…They believe NC-17 is the one to do / MGM (obligated to) researching what an “R” rating would do in previews…Stephen has argued with them. Threat”

Madonna is referring to her controversial erotic thriller Body of Evidence (Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, 1993). There was much debate at the studio regarding whether to release it uncut with an NC-17 rating, or release an edited R-rated version. Ultimately the edited version was released and the film bombed. The NC-17 version was released unrated on video. “Stephen” is likely Stephen Deutsch, the film’s executive producer.

”I do not want portable phones. Give me a car with a phone in it.”

I guess Madonna was not a big fan of the new technology?

Perhaps more than anything these lists are physical evidence of what we all know: that Madonna is very hands-on in all aspects of her life and career. It seems quintessential that she handwrites her to-do lists herself.

Make sure you register to bid in our next Music Icons auction for your chance to win a personal Madonna item for yourself!