Mario Maglieri, former owner of famed Sunset Strip rock clubs The Rainbow Bar and Grill and The Whisky a Go Go, died today.
His death at age 93 was announced in a posting on the Rainbow’s Facebook page that read: “It is with great sadness to announce the passing of our beloved Mario Maglieri, owner and founder of the Rainbow Bar and Grill and The Whisky a Go Go. He passed this morning while surrounded by loved ones. We will announce services shortly. We ask that you please allow the family time to grieve. Thank you for your understanding.”
Maglieri, along with Elmer Valentine and Lou Adler, bought a restaurant known as the Villa Nova in 1972 and renamed it the Rainbow. Maglieri was already known on the strip as manager of the nearby Whisky a Go Go, which was owned by Valentine.
The clubs were famed attractions for rock stars and celebrities alike, hosting acts such as The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Van Halen, Motley Crue, Guns ‘N Roses, Warren Zevon and Janis Joplin.
TMZ reported that Maglieri died at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where he had spent several weeks. He had broken his hip in April, TMZ reported.
The marquee outside the Whisky was changed Thursday to read “Rest in Peace Mario Maglieri, King of the Sunset Strip. 1924-2017”
A loss to the community and to history, Michael and his Father were always there to support me when I ran for council and freely opened their venues to us. My very deepest & sincerest condolences to Michael and the family.
One of the last great personalities that made the Sunset Strip iconic. Mario was wise, funny, kind and a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He founded a dynasty that will keep the spirit of the Sunset Strip alive for generations. I loved his stories about Janis Joplin and the other greats and near greats that haunt the Whiskey and the Rainbow. His passing is the passing of an era. We will miss him dearly.
He helped to build this city… on Rock n’ Roll
A Giant has departed our shores. Deepest condolences to the family.