Lee Grant, the Academy Award-winning actress known for her role in the 1973 film 'Shampoo,' has had a remarkable career in Hollywood. However, her journey was not without challenges. Grant faced a period of blacklisting in Hollywood from 1952 to 1964 due to her late husband's membership in the Communist Party.
After relocating to Malibu, Grant found love again with actor Joseph Fioretti, also known as Joe Feury. Upon her return to acting, she regained stardom with notable roles in films like 'In the Heat of the Night' and 'Valley of the Dolls.'
In later years, Grant transitioned to directing and co-founded Feury/Grant Productions with Fioretti. Together, they produced over two dozen documentaries, earning an Oscar in 1987 for their work on 'Down and Out in America,' a documentary focusing on the Reagan era recession.
Fioretti has since ventured into the art world as a painter, with an upcoming exhibition titled 'Fioretti: Family, Friends & Flowers.' The exhibition features 35 artworks, including sunflower paintings, portraits, and cityscapes. Notably, all proceeds from the exhibition will be donated to Ukrainian charities.
Grant, now recognized as the oldest living director at age 98, has also dabbled in painting. While she no longer paints, Fioretti continues to create art, capturing moments of everyday life and cityscapes in his work.
The couple has graced numerous red carpets, including the Oscars, where they encountered memorable moments with the paparazzi. Despite the glitz and glamour of Hollywood events, Grant and Fioretti have maintained a unique sense of style, with Grant opting for vintage or rental gowns and Fioretti sporting elegant velvet tuxedos.
Reflecting on their careers, Grant cherishes items with history, such as a silk blouse from the film 'Voyage of the Damned,' while Fioretti transitioned from filmmaking to art after industry changes in the early 2000s.
Fioretti's art journey led him to art school at the age of 75, where he honed his drawing skills and delved into the foundations of art. Their story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and reinvention in the ever-evolving landscape of the entertainment industry.