Date of Birth: March 28, 1907
Zodiac Sign: Aries
Date of Death: December 30, 1993
Biography
Irving Paul Lazar, commonly known as “Swifty” Lazar, was a prominent American talent agent and businessman, celebrated for his keen eye for talent and sharp negotiation skills. Born on March 28, 1907, in Brooklyn, New York, Lazar grew up in a humble family. He attended Brooklyn Law School, where he earned his law degree before transitioning into the entertainment industry. Lazar quickly became known for his ability to broker high-profile deals, representing some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, including Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, and Cary Grant. He also had a knack for organizing legendary parties, most notably his annual post-Academy Awards bash, which became a staple in Hollywood’s social calendar. Lazar’s career spanned several decades, and he remained a significant figure in the industry until his death on December 30, 1993.
5 Interesting Facts about Irving Paul Lazar
1. Irving Lazar was nicknamed “Swifty” because of his rapid-fire negotiation style.
2. He was instrumental in securing a $1 million book deal for Mario Puzo’s “The Godfather.”
3. Lazar represented authors as well, including Ernest Hemingway and Vladimir Nabokov.
4. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, where he met and befriended several future clients.
5. Irving Lazar was known for his flamboyant personality and was a regular fixture at Hollywood’s most exclusive events.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Irving Paul Lazar
1. “In Hollywood, it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.”
2. “A good agent is a blend of a psychologist, a diplomat, and a magician.”
3. “Deals are made in the head, not the heart.”
4. “Always be closing, because you never know when the next opportunity will come.”
5. “Success in this business is about making the impossible, possible.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Irving Paul Lazar’s net worth was estimated to be around $50 million.
Children
Irving Paul Lazar did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Wikipedia – Irving Paul Lazar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irving_Paul_Lazar
2. [IMDb – Irving Paul Lazar](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0493699/
4. [Find a Grave – Irving Paul Lazar](https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/2142/irving-paul-lazar
