35 Facts About Geri McGee

Early Life of Geri McGee

Geri McGee's early life set the stage for her later fame and notoriety. Here are some intriguing facts about her beginnings.

1. Born on May 16, 1936, in Los Angeles, California, Geri McGee grew up in a modest household.
2. She attended Van Nuys High School, where she was known for her beauty and charm.
3. Geri's father worked as a carpenter, while her mother was a homemaker.
4. She had a younger sister named Barbara, who also gained some attention due to Geri's fame.
5. Geri's early aspirations included becoming a model and actress, inspired by Hollywood's golden era.

Rise to Fame

Geri McGee's rise to fame was marked by her association with the glamorous yet dangerous world of Las Vegas.

6. In the early 1960s, Geri moved to Las Vegas, seeking better opportunities.
7. She worked as a showgirl at the Tropicana Hotel, one of the most famous venues in Vegas.
8. Her stunning looks and captivating performances quickly made her a popular figure in the city.
9. Geri's beauty caught the eye of many influential people, including casino executives and mobsters.
10. She became romantically involved with Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal, a prominent casino manager with mob ties.

Relationship with Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal

Geri McGee's relationship with Frank Rosenthal was both glamorous and tumultuous, deeply influencing her life.

11. Geri and Frank met in the early 1960s and quickly became inseparable.
12. They married in 1969, despite Frank's controversial reputation.
13. The couple had two children together, a son named Steven and a daughter named Stephanie.
14. Geri's marriage to Frank provided her with a lavish lifestyle, including luxury homes and expensive cars.
15. However, their relationship was marred by infidelity, jealousy, and frequent arguments.

Involvement in the Casino World

Geri McGee's life was closely intertwined with the casino world, bringing both excitement and danger.

16. Geri often accompanied Frank to the casinos he managed, including the Stardust, Fremont, and Hacienda.
17. She became known for her extravagant spending habits, often gambling large sums of money.
18. Geri's presence in the casinos added to the allure and mystique of the Vegas nightlife.
19. She was rumored to have had affairs with several high-profile figures in the casino industry.
20. Geri's involvement in the casino world eventually led to her becoming a target for law enforcement and rival mobsters.

Struggles and Downfall

Despite her glamorous lifestyle, Geri McGee faced numerous personal struggles that contributed to her downfall.

21. Geri battled substance abuse issues, including alcohol and prescription drugs.
22. Her marriage to Frank deteriorated, leading to a separation in the early 1980s.
23. Geri's lavish spending habits and gambling debts put a strain on her finances.
24. She was involved in several legal disputes, including custody battles over her children.
25. Geri's health began to decline, exacerbated by her substance abuse and emotional turmoil.

Death and Legacy

Geri McGee's life ended tragically, but her legacy continues to captivate those fascinated by the world of Las Vegas.

26. Geri McGee died on November 9, 1982, at the age of 46.
27. Her death was ruled an accidental overdose, though some speculate foul play.
28. Geri's funeral was attended by many notable figures from the casino and entertainment industries.
29. She was buried at the Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, California.
30. Geri's life story inspired the character of Ginger McKenna in the 1995 film "Casino," played by Sharon Stone.
31. The film brought renewed attention to Geri's life and her tumultuous relationship with Frank Rosenthal.
32. Geri's story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of the glamorous yet perilous world of Las Vegas.
33. Despite her tragic end, Geri is remembered for her beauty, charm, and the indelible mark she left on Vegas history.
34. Her life continues to be a subject of fascination for historians, filmmakers, and true crime enthusiasts.
35. Geri McGee's legacy lives on as a symbol of the highs and lows of the Las Vegas casino scene.

Geri McGee's Legacy

Geri McGee's life, filled with glamour and intrigue, continues to captivate many. Her story, marked by her marriage to Frank Rosenthal and the inspiration for the character Ginger in the movie "Casino," offers a glimpse into the glitzy yet tumultuous world of Las Vegas in the 1970s. Despite her tragic end, Geri's legacy lives on through popular culture and the enduring fascination with her life. Her tale serves as a reminder of the complexities behind the glittering facade of fame and fortune. Whether you're a history buff or a movie enthusiast, Geri McGee's story is a compelling chapter in the annals of Las Vegas lore. Keep exploring, and you'll find even more intriguing details about this enigmatic figure.