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Steve Rubell

Steve Rubell
Born (1943-12-02)December 2, 1943
Brooklyn, New York, U.S.
Died July 25, 1989(1989-07-25) (aged 45)
Manhattan, New York, U.S.
Cause of death Hepatitis and septic shock complicated by AIDS
Resting place Beth Moses Cemetery
Alma mater Syracuse University
Occupation Entrepreneur, nightclub owner

Steve Rubell (December 2, 1943 – July 25, 1989) was an American entrepreneur and co-owner of the New York disco Studio 54.

Rubell and his brother Don grew up in a Jewish family in Brooklyn, New York. His father worked for the U.S. Post Office and later became a tennis pro. Rubell attended Wingate High School and was also an avid tennis player, but decided against playing professionally.

Entering Syracuse University, Rubell had the intention of becoming a dentist, but failed his courses and switched majors, studying finance and history. Rubell was reportedly not a good student but managed to complete his studies, eventually completing a master's degree in finance. While attending college, Rubell met Ian Schrager, who became a lifelong friend and business partner. Rubell, along with Schrager, were brothers together at the university's Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity.

Rubell joined the National Guard, returning to New York after a tour of duty in a military intelligence unit. He worked at a brokerage firm after his return. Rubell then decided to start his own business and opened two Steak Lofts restaurants, one in Queens, New York, and the other in Mystic, Connecticut.

Rubell and Schrager opened two clubs, one in Boston with John Addison from La Jardin, the other, called The Enchanted Garden, in Queens in 1975, which later became Douglaston Manor. In April 1977, they opened Studio 54 in the old CBS Studio on West 54th Street that the network was selling. Rubell became a familiar face in front of the building, turning people away and only allowing entry to those who met his pedantic standards. Rubell also dealt with the club's celebrity patrons, ensuring that they were thrown lavish parties. His approach worked and the club made $7 million during its first year.


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