On this day in 1980, UNITED ARTISTS released THE IDOLMAKER. Directed by TAYLOR HACKFORD, this roman a clef is reported to be the story of music promoter/producer BOB MARCUCCI, who counted among his ‘discoveries’ FRANKIE AVALON and FABIAN. This underrated musical featured breakout performances by RAY SHARKEY, PETER GALLAGHER, TOVAH FELDSHUH, PAUL LAND, JOE PANTOLIANO and MAUREEN McCORMICK.