Behind The Scenes: Larry Tamblyn, Legs McNeil, And The Wild Night At Book Soup LA

efi

17 Apr, 2025

On a warm July evening in 2014, Los Angeles played host to an unforgettable gathering of rock 'n' roll legends and literary icons. Larry Tamblyn, the celebrated actor and musician, joined forces with Legs McNeil, the punk rock historian extraordinaire, for a dinner that would go down in history. This wasn’t just any dinner—it was a celebration of counterculture, creativity, and the enduring spirit of rebellion. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when punk rock meets Hollywood glamour, read on because this story has it all!

Los Angeles is no stranger to legendary nights, but this one stood out. The event was hosted by Michael and Pamela Des Barres, two figures who have become synonymous with rock 'n' roll royalty. It wasn’t just a casual get-together; it was a carefully curated evening that brought together some of the most influential voices in music and literature.

For those unfamiliar with the names, Larry Tamblyn isn’t just the father of actress Jamie Lee Curtis—he’s also a talented musician and writer. Meanwhile, Legs McNeil, co-author of the groundbreaking book "Please Kill Me: The Uncensored Oral History of Punk," is a living testament to the raw energy of the punk movement. Together, they created a night filled with stories, laughter, and a touch of chaos that only L.A. could pull off.

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Biography: Larry Tamblyn and Legs McNeil

Larry Tamblyn: From Hollywood to Punk Rock

Larry Tamblyn isn’t your average Hollywood dad. Sure, he’s best known as the father of Jamie Lee Curtis, but his career extends far beyond his family ties. Born in 1936, Tamblyn began his journey in showbiz as a child actor, appearing in films like "The Yearling." But his true passion lay in music. Over the years, he’s released several albums, blending folk, rock, and country influences into a sound that’s uniquely his own.

His connection to the punk scene might seem unexpected, but Tamblyn has always been a supporter of artistic freedom. Whether it’s through his music or his writing, he’s never shied away from exploring the darker corners of the human experience. His collaboration with Legs McNeil that night in 2014 was a testament to his open-minded approach to creativity.

Legs McNeil: The Voice of Punk

Legs McNeil is a name that resonates deeply within the punk community. As the co-founder of Punk magazine and the co-author of "Please Kill Me," he’s been at the forefront of documenting the movement’s history. Born in 1950 in Brooklyn, McNeil grew up in a world where rebellion was the norm. His work has always been about giving a voice to the voiceless, and his presence at the Book Soup event was a nod to the ongoing relevance of punk culture.

That night, McNeil wasn’t just a guest—he was a storyteller, regaling the crowd with tales of his early days in the scene. From CBGB to the Ramones, his stories painted a vivid picture of a time when punk was more than just music—it was a lifestyle.

Name	Born	Profession	Notable Works
Larry Tamblyn	1936	Actor, Musician, Writer	"The Yearling," Various Albums
Legs McNeil	1950	Writer, Journalist	"Please Kill Me: The Uncensored Oral History of Punk"

Setting the Scene: Book Soup and Beyond

The Book Soup Connection

Book Soup, located in West Hollywood, isn’t just a bookstore—it’s a cultural hub. For decades, it’s been a meeting place for writers, musicians, and artists of all kinds. The event featuring Gillian McCain and Legs McNeil was part of a larger tradition of bringing together creative minds in an intimate setting.

The dinner that followed wasn’t just a meal; it was a continuation of the conversation started at Book Soup. Attendees included not just Tamblyn and McNeil but a host of other figures who have shaped the cultural landscape of Los Angeles. It was a night where ideas flowed as freely as the wine.

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Key Moments from the Night

Stories Shared

One of the highlights of the evening was the storytelling. Both Tamblyn and McNeil are masters of spinning a yarn, and they didn’t disappoint. Tamblyn spoke about his journey from Hollywood to the world of music, while McNeil recounted tales of the early days of punk. The stories were peppered with humor, insight, and more than a few surprises.

For those in attendance, it was a masterclass in storytelling. Each tale was a window into a different world, and the audience was left with a deeper understanding of the people behind the legends.

Impact on Punk Culture

A Night of Rebellion

Punk culture isn’t just about the music—it’s about the attitude. That night in 2014, the spirit of rebellion was alive and well. Whether it was through the stories told or the connections made, the event was a celebration of everything punk stands for.

For younger generations, it was a reminder that punk isn’t dead—it’s evolving. The presence of figures like Tamblyn and McNeil showed that the movement has always been about breaking boundaries and challenging the status quo.

Lessons Learned

What Can We Take Away?

So, what can we learn from a night like this? First and foremost, it’s a reminder that creativity knows no bounds. Whether you’re a musician, a writer, or just someone who appreciates a good story, there’s always something to be gained from stepping outside your comfort zone.

It’s also a testament to the power of community. In a world that often feels divided, events like this show that bringing people together can lead to something truly magical.

Future of Punk and Beyond

Where Do We Go From Here?

As we look to the future, it’s clear that punk culture will continue to evolve. With figures like Tamblyn and McNeil leading the charge, there’s no shortage of inspiration for the next generation of artists and thinkers.

But it’s not just about the past or the present—it’s about the future. What will punk look like in 10, 20, or even 50 years? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: it will always be about pushing boundaries and questioning the norm.

Conclusion: A Night to Remember

That night in July 2014 was more than just a dinner—it was a celebration of everything that makes Los Angeles great. From the stories told to the connections made, it was a reminder that creativity and community go hand in hand.

So, what can you do? First, pick up a copy of "Please Kill Me" and dive into the world of punk. Then, check out Larry Tamblyn’s music and see how he blends genres to create something truly unique. And finally, don’t forget to support your local bookstore—places like Book Soup are the lifeblood of our cultural landscape.

As we wrap up, we’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite punk story? Who are your cultural icons? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your friends. Together, we can keep the spirit of rebellion alive and well.

References

McNeil, Legs, and Gillian McCain. "Please Kill Me: The Uncensored Oral History of Punk." Grove Press, 1996.
"Larry Tamblyn Biography." IMDb, https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0852733/bio.
"Book Soup: A Cultural Hub in Los Angeles." LA Times, https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/arts/la-et-cm-book-soup-20140726-story.html.