marie claire

Patrick Swayze: The Last Dance

Photographs in his final weeks showed a man ravaged by cancer, but to a generation reared on Ghost and Dirty Dancing, he'll always be the heart-throb who refused to put Baby in a corner, says Helen Gent.

Life Story: Betty Ford

Dancer, model, breast cancer survivor and secret alcoholic, America's most colourful and outspoken first lady is best known as a beacon of hope for millions tormented by disease and addiction.

The Notorious B.I.G: Bad Boy Of Rap

He was one of hip-hop's biggest stars - in every sense - but his role in a blood-soaked turf war between the America's East and West Coast rappers ensured his days at the top would be short-lived. Claire Scobie reports.

Farrah Fawcett: Hollywood's Angel

She was the all-American girl with the megawatt smile, but, writes Helen Gent, her love life and volatile temper saw her career overshadowed by lurid headlines.

Bruce Lee: Kung-Fu King

Hungry for fame but spurned because of his race, the martial artist fought tooth and nail to conquer Hollywood. But, as Helen Gent reports, his biggest battle was his personal demons.

Peggy Guggenheim: Mistress Of Modernism

Known for her riotous parties and outrageous behaviour, this wealthy libertine became one of the most celebrated champions of modern art. By Helen Gent.

Roy Orbison: The Big O

With his mournful appearance, melancholy songs and heartbreaking personal life, the singer was often cast as a dark and tragic figure. But, as Helen Gent discovers, his public persona belied a determined optimist.

Eartha Kitt: The Feline Femme Fatale

She clawed her way to superstardom with "wit, grit and a sense of humour" - and relished the love and attention she'd longed for all her life.

Roald Dahl: A Dark Fairytale

Wartime pilot, Hollywood husband and one of the world's most beloved authors, Roald Dahl's life reads like one of his fantastical novels. But, as Farrah Butt reports, not every chapter had a happy ending.

The Dolly Sisters: Double Trouble

These identical twins conquered Broadway and men's hearts, but their insatiable passion for gambling almost ruined them, writes Helen Gent.