Michael Alig, So-Called “King of the Club Kids,” has been Released from Prison
He had been in prison all these years for his direct involvement in the death of Andre “Angel” Melendez, in 1996; a drug-dealer acquaintance, and roommate of Alig’s. The precise nature of the crime of which Alig was convicted — along with accomplice, Robert “Freeze” Riggs — is so grisly that we won’t recount it here, but it is easily researched.
Alig’s life and crime has so far been the subject of a book, called Disco Bloodbath, and two films — one a documentary, the other a docudrama starring Macaulay Culkin — both entitled Party Monster. All document the rise and violent fall of Alig, a young misfit kid from Indiana who came to New York — like so many others — to find his fame and fortune.
The Club Kids scene, of which Alig is often referred to as “king,” was one of cartoonishly outrageous fashion, and an open embracing of drugs, sex, and general decadence. Their parties ruled Manhattan’s dance clubs — most notably, Limelight — in the late-80s, and early-90s.
We won’t lapse into a history lesson on the Club Kids here, nor will we opine on Mr. Alig’s crime or release. But those curious to learn more, or to explore Michael’s online existence — which already includes an official Twitter and blog (which were maintained by an associate when he was in prison), and is bound to include much more now that Alig is free — are encouraged to visit his PeekYou profile.
Now, the Club Kids, on Donahue, circa ’93.
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