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AICN Remembers John Ritter
Hi, everyone. "Moriarty" here with some Rumblings From The Lab...
Wow. Back to back this morning. I heard this news and then heard about Johnny Cash within minutes. One of the people in our chat room was particularly shocked by the news about THREE’S COMPANY star John Ritter, and he asked me if he could write up a quick remembrance of the actor. Here it is for you:
John Ritter was my cousin. He was also my hero. I am writing this only hours after I heard about his death, so forgive me if it's a little disjointed. I thought this would make me feel better. Thank you to Moriarty for posting this.
John was raised by father and country legend Tex Ritter, best known for penning the Academy-Award winning theme for "High Noon," and his mother Dorothy, an actress. Raised around his father's television show and film career, John always had a bug for performing. As a young man, he was good-looking, gregarious and well liked, even serving as class president in high school. He studied acting at USC, and impressed his teachers with his ability to shift between weighty dramatic acting and light comedic fair. His biggest talent was perhaps his control of his physical comedy, but he was so strong in other areas that he would eventually be part of many different genres in his career.
His notable early roles included a bit part in the Kurt Russell Disney movie Barefoot Executive, and a recurring role on "The Waltons" as Rev. Matthew Fordwick. His most iconic role however was of course that of Jack Tripper on "Three's Company," which debuted in 1977. The show was a misfire with critics, but gained huge popularity thanks to John's physical comedy (and what John called "the jiggle factor"). He performed many a pratfall and couch trip, and in one famous incident, had a viewer notice that his testicle was hanging out briefly during a shot with particularly short shorts. (His response to the offending shot being removed from reruns was classic John: "Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't.")
The show lasted for eight seasons, and on the show's finale, John had a dream come true when comedic legend Lucille Ball hosted a retrospective strictly because of how much she admired John's work. She noted that John's goal was not to make someone laugh, but to make them fall out of their seat laughing. John moved onto film work, at first contrasting his TV comedic stylings for more dramatic fare. He returned to outrageous physical comedy in the Blake Edward's gem Skin Deep. Edwards told John he was in Peter Sellers’s league as far as using his body for broad shtick, something John took much joy in. He poured his blood and sweat into the movie, even breaking his shoulder during the scene where he is hit by a wall of rushing water, after insisting on doing his own stunt. The following year, he had his biggest commercial success with the first Problem Child film.
John also was instrumental in doing telethons for cerebral palsy, a disease his brother Tommy suffers from. He stayed up days straight to host, raising lots of money to help understand CP. John was the rare type who truly cared about the causes he put his heart into, a man who was always much more giving than he would ever let on. He never made a big deal out of how charitable he was, but everyone who knew him could only describe him as having a heart of gold.
His career got a second wind when he costarred in Sling Blade with buddy Billy Bob Thorton, whom he had starred with in the sitcom "Hearts Afire" in 1992. John's acting in the movie was widely praised, and was a chance for him to go in new directions. He starred in several independents over the next few years, most notably the Sundance hit Tadpole and this year's Manhood. Last year, John starred in the ABC sitcom "8 Rules For Dating My Teenage Daughter." The show was one of the only hits of last season, and it marked a return to form for this tried-and-true sitcom actor.
On a personal note, John also inspired my direction in life. He hammered comedy classics into my head from a young age, making me sit through flicks like It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad Mad World and The Party until I understood their genius. He was so literate in the art of comedy. I'm now an aspiring filmmaker (aren't we all?), and I owe that to John's inspiration. He spoke of how comedy could communicate, and how in a way it was the most fulfilling art form, because it encompassed happiness and tragedy equally, and it was the style which best helped people sleep at night. The times we watched films together hearing nuggets of wisdom like this were among my happiest memories of childhood. He understood what value comedy could have, and he shared his gift with everyone he could.
Initial reports this morning indicate he collapsed on the set of his show. While tragic, I cannot think of a better way for a man to go who cared so much about bringing joy to people through entertaining. John leaves behind his wife, his four kids, and an extended group of family and friends who absolutely thought he hung the moon. Thank you, John, for inspiring me to be a better person and to bring joy to those around me. Your spirit was a real treasure. I know you are up there, doing a pratfall at the Pearly Gates, making everybody laugh.
(You can call me "Couch Tripper")
I’m sure at some point today, we’ll pay equal tribute to The Man in Black. For now, I appreciate this contributor’s fond farewell to a very funny guy.
"Moriarty" out.
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God bless his soul
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John was cool. Not Gary Coleman, or ALF cool. But cool.
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John was the first really funny guy on tv that I noticed. Three's Company was hilarious.
I was glad to see him back on tv, only to have this happen. Tragic.
I was glad to see that he was a charitable person, he just made an appearance on Jerry Lewis's telethon.
Honorable soul.
Rest in peace. -
This is some very sad and shocking news!!!! Farewell Mr. Ritter, I'll never forget your comic genius and the way your presence in movies and TV shows always seemed to brighten them up a little.
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I'm totally stunned over this. Don't forget, he was also the voice of Clifford the Big Red Dog on PBS. My son watches it every day. (He's the second PBS voiceover person to die this week (the teenaged girl who does the voice of Caillou died in a car wreck).
I remember watching John on an ep of Conan a few months ago. VERY funny! He will be missed. -
Sep 12, 2003 8:03:33 AM CDT
I'm not really a religious or superstitious person, but...
by vectormatrix
It's scary how famous deaths always seem to happen in THREE'S.
When I woke up this morning my mom told me what she heard on the radio and I thought it must have been a mistake. - You never really expect someone famous to die so young because of a heart attack.
I still have a lump in my throat and its just an uncomfortable, but necessary reminder of our mortality. -
Just the other day my girlfriend and I decided to rent some movies. I was in the mood for something really funny but also something really silly, so I had to grab Stay Tuned. Very funny movie, very funny man. R.I.P. My Ritter. Thank you for your time.
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Too many great celebs have died this year. Unfortunately, a lot were expected. John Ritter's wasn't. I have not been it so much shock over a celeb's death since Phil Hartman. John has a certain charisma when he was on the the screen, Three's Company, It, Problem Child 1&2, or as Ted on Buffy, he was just great. He was the only funny thing about both Problem Child movies, well except Michael Richards punching the clown, and I loved his "John Ritter: Secrets" on Conan O'Brien.
He will be missed. -
I remember seeing him on the Barbara Walters interview back when he first hit it big with Three's Company. To the question, how would you like to be remembered, he said (this is from memory):
"You know that golden thread that connects all of us? I'd like to be remembered as someone who pulled on that thread and brought us all just a little closer together."
Okay, I was a kid at the time, and I remember getting kind of nauseus. It was such a sucky thing to say (I thought) that it stuck in my mind. But looking back, I can see he was just a very genuine and sincere guy with a genuine comedic talent and it's not a bad epitaph at all.
The world needs more, not fewer, people like him.
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The good ones always go too soon. Here's a guy who was, arguably, the funniest peson on TV for several years. And still relevant today--hit series, Buffy ep, Tadpole. He's probably someone we'll appreciate even more now that he's gone. Very very sad news. RIP...
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Man, I feel bad for that subject. But I just can seem to erase it, either...
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I had heard about Johnny Cash, but not John Ritter. SO there I was getting ready to connect to this site, when the first story I notice is this one. John was a good man and a funny man. He will be missed. I was in shock as well. I had to check CNN to be sure this wasn't a joke. Johnny Cash is also one of those guys you hate to hear about dying, but he had been ill so it wasn't as big of a shock, though it is still sad. RIP both of you.
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It's brilliant to see the outpouring of love n' support on here. John Ritter was great, but almost famous. It's bloody beautiful to know he will be so missed. Kudos to all the TBers out there for rallying behind John Ritter. Out.
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If either of the chicks who play his daughters on 8 Simple Rules need comforting, I'm available. If they want comforting at the same time, or if they want to comfort each other while I sit in the corner and watch, that's cool too.
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Sep 12, 2003 8:37:16 AM CDT
Terrible news. We lost two wonderful entertainers in one day.
by psyclops
This was such a shock when I heard about it this morning. The man was very funny, I enjoyed his work and feel terrible about his passing. One of his best performances was in the offbeat drama IT CAME FROM THE SKY in which he played the father of a disabled boy who blamed himself for his son's condition. It was a small movie but a damn good role and it showed a different side of John Ritter the actor. He was a talented person and he will be missed.
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John Ritter as one of the first people to make me laugh. I'm not usually affected by celebrity deaths, but I have been by this one. Almost at tears. The only celebrity death that ever made me actually cry was John Candy's, cause he was a real hero to the people here in T.O. Anyways, John might have mainly been known as a physical comedian and not a witty or cerebral one, but of the legion of comedians for the past 25 years,he is definitely in the first rank. I'm going to go buy the "Skin Deep" DVD. My personal favourite of John's movies. Tom Mix is crying again.
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Well done, pal. And farewell, Mr. Ritter. We hardly knew you.
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Two great men in one day. May we always remember these men and how they made us laugh ( Ritter) and made us cry ( Cash) I know for sure what color clothes i am wearing today ..BLACK!!!
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Sep 12, 2003 8:50:47 AM CDT
I had a "Hero at Large" poster on my bedroom wall when I was a k
by frankcobretti
God, I loved that movie.
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John Ritter was mostly known for being a TV star. Very few people know that he was not only a great actor that would show his chops in occasional projects, but he was also a man who, behind the scenes, gave many new talents their first breaks, both in TV and film. Growing up the child of a famous man (Tex Ritter), he never let it go to his head. He knew he was the talent in front of the camera, but treated the others on the sets as equals. His life will be reflected by the MANY that will be reminicing for the next several weeks, if not months......And Johnny Cash...the saddest part was that in my mind....it was due to the loss of his wife June....and Johnny died of a broken heart.....And thus, I am sad. - - - George, The 7th Chicken.
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And when someones asks why, tell them two great men died.
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Sep 12, 2003 9:08:18 AM CDT
Harry Goz, veteran voice actor, also died recently. He's possibl
by andy travis
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...I'm not that surprised about Johnny Cash, I mean it's sad yes, but not unexpected. He's been around a long time and a long and fulfilling career.
John Ritter: no one saw this coming and I'm pretty much stunned. I grew up watching Three's Company. John always played memorable characters. I notice people mentioned the Buffy ep. Well, he did a really good M*A*S*H ep too, and that was the first time I ever saw him do dramatic work.
Here's to John and Johnny. Live on. -
Mr. Ritter was one of the funniest men on TV. I grew up watching Three's Company and I have nothing but great memories of this most talented man. Rest in Peace Mr. Ritter. You will be missed.
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John Ritter's comic genius turned what would have been a forgotten piece of late-70s tripe (Threes Company) into a classic. He will be missed.
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...because three's company.
OK, kill me. I deserve it. sk -
You all do me proud - no jerkwad comments from any of you. Rest in Peace Mr. Ritter - you will be missed. XO
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where he played Buffy's mom's psychotic robot boyfriend who tossed Buffy around like a rag doll. It was a different kind of role for Ritter, which showed his range. Lets go to the Regal Beagle and toast a drink for Jack Tripper
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I just saw him doing press for his show. Godspeed John. And to Johnny as well.
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John Ritter passed away on his daughter's 5th birthday . . .
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John Ritter passed away on his daughter's 5th birthday . . .
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Don't forget his brilliant guest appearance on Buffy. Jack Tripper was an icon in my youth. One of the funniest TV characters ever. I also loved Hooperman. He will be sadly missed. Goodnight John.
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Other notible John Ritter perfomances. Movies:"Sling Blade" ,"americathon" TV Movies: "unnatural causes" (he played a vietnam vet dying from the effects of ancient orange), "the night that panicked america"(a tv movie about the effects of the orson wells"war of the worlds" broadcast). Tv series: "hooperman", "scrubs"(Mr. dorian)
He will be truly missed. -
I'm glad somebody mentioned this film. I have very fond memories of seeing this film in theatres as a kid. It was one of the first non-kiddie films I was allowed to go to, and I thought it was great. I even got to go to a night time showing, not a matinee! I loved John Ritter from Three's Company, and was really impressed at how different he was in the film, and how great and nice the character was that he played. I also remember being struck by what an awful city New York was in that film (I think it was set in New York? If not, I apologize, especially to all New Yorkers! I have since been to New York and have found it to be a fantastic city.) I particularly remember the elaborate sets of locks people felt compelled to install on their apartment doors.
God bless you John Ritter. You will indeed be missed. -
Ritter was awesome in that movie too. I saw it before I saw Sling Blade (even though it came out after that movie), and it really showed me how good Ritter was as a serious actor. If you haven't seen "Panic" I'd really recommend it. RIP John.
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I always enjoyed John Ritter's work, and felt he was an excellent actor who was often overlooked by many. Whether it be as the classic "Jack Tripper" character, his movies ("Hero at Large" and "Skin Deep" come to mind as excellent performances), or anywhere else I might have seen him (Buffy's "Ted"), Ritter was a true talent that will be missed.
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As a little boy in the early '80s, I grew up watching John Ritter play a bumbling but likeable bachelor roommate to two girls in Three's Company. He displayed great physical comedy and improv. Then I saw him as the subdued and patient nice guy, who became less and less of a pushover with the help of his rotten egg of a foster son in Problem Child 1&2. Granted I never watched "8 Simple Rules..", I'm glad it's success gave him exposure back in the tv realm, ironically enough on the same network where he made a name for himself in the business. Waking up to see this certainly didn't help start my day. I'd just like to say I won't forget Three's Company or any of the movies I've seen him in. Anyone who knew Ritter knew he liked acting. Take care and rest in peace.
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I was actually thinking about Johnny Cash today before I found out he was dead. I think about him alot. Today, I was early for my spanish class as I usually am. I was reading the paper to find the show times for Once Upon a Time in Mexico, and Cabin Fever, two movies that may now have to wait. ALong with those movie showtimes was the listing for this dinner theatre presentation of a play about Patsy Kline. I had misunderstood the ad, thinking Patsy would be doing a show, and a girl corrected be, stating she was certain that she had died. In that instant, I remember thinking to myself, GOD, I am glad Johnny Cash isn't dead.
A slightly airheaded female from alabama came into our class and said she had heard some sad news. She said, "John Ritter died last night of a heart attack. Its so sad."
I couldnt believe that Jack from three's company was no more, and so we spoke about that for a moment, and then the air head girl said, "Oh yeah, that singer guy Johnny Cash died today too."
Bricks fell in my heart. I knew the day was nigh when I heard this news. A man of such magnificence would not be spared of a poetic fate of leaving his mortal coil shortly after his wife of many years, who he still loved, passed away. BUT no matter how ready I was for this news, it still hurt. It hurt that he and Rick Rubin wouldnt put together yet another compilation of bitchin cover songs, it hurt that there would now be no hope of MTV of ever being able to repent for the attrocity they have commited to the world of serious and important music by nominating him for all of those VMAs, only to give each and every one of them, undeservedly, to pop fops like Missy Elliot and Justin Timberlake (who at least had the good sense to give a slice of his award to Johnny Cash, and demand that the crowd stand up for him. I hate Timberlake's music, but I do respect him), it hurt that one of the last things in our fading country that was truly american, truly male, and respectible, was gone.
I couldnt go to my classes today.
I cant think about music today.
I don't think I can even watch movies today.
Johnny Cash was an outlaw country musician who was kickin around from an era where music was music, and not the words a pretty man on tv said in tune. He wrote many memorable tunes like A Boy Named Sue, Ring of FIre, Flesh and Blood, I Walk the Line, and the political masterpiece Man In Black. He was not trained to actually write music, and his chorus teacher didn't think he could hack it as a singer.
Cash was to country, what punk was to rock. He did many shows in prisons, and that is where he met Merle Haggard, who was doing time in one of the jails he played in. If you get the album Live at Folsom Prison, you are in for a treat. The man simply tears into the guards, the warden, and the whole damn twisted prison system created to trap the poor, while the rich commiters of even greater crimes in the name of politics and business got off scott free.
Many kids often scoffed at me and my love for Johnny Cash. But these kids were all tools, automotons waiting for the next twit with a freaky outfit and a sad childhood to exploit to come out with a stupid and loud album. These were people who were never touched by the harsh truths of manual or physical labor. Soft people, like marshmallows with pulses.
I worked as a garbage man for one and a half years, and mostly with a fellow named Nathan Hatfield. Me and Nathan had alot of anger for a world that rewarded kids of families who were well off enough, or able to pretend to be, with more love and open arms than it did for us. We drove around a campus everyday fighting discusting filth, maggots, and slime, but we didn't brave this alone. We had Johnny Cash's music in our tape deck. And we listened to that tape at least two times through. We loved the songs he wrote, and we also loved the songs he didn't write, but sang, and therefore made it as if he did.
One is no longer a song by U2. Hurt wasn't written by Trent Reznor anymore. Rowboat isnt a Beck number. These people were nothing more than agents for a god of music. When he sang their songs, he brought such unique life to them that they truly became his songs, and no longer sounded right when played by their original writers. Cash's rendition of other country standards were great too. There are few musical epics more true and gritty than Cash's swing at "Tennessee Stud."
2003 will go down in history as being a bad year to be a Real-Man in the world of Entertainment. We lost Charles Bronson, and now, we lost Johnny Cash. If things come in threes, as some people think they do, I wouldn't be surprised if Clint Eastwood kicked the bucket before January.
Cash, I am going to miss you.
Joe Scott
(email: thetaoofjoe2@aol.com) -
I tried to get this up before but it did not work. I remember being in the 4th grade trying to sneak peeks of Three's Company after my bedtime when it first came out. I bought the 'Hero At Large' novelization when the movie came out. The girls of that show may have been the sizzle, but John Ritter was the steak. I enjoyed Hooperman when I was in college. I liked his new show on ABC (and even watched Hearts Afire). John was class act. And he seemed to be of those guys who was just genuinely likeable, like, say, Will Smith, minus all the flash. His time came 30 years too soon.
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News of John's passing has completely stunned me. This is terribly sad and depressing news. Hollywood has lost an outstanding actor who was a comic genius in his own time.
I'd recently starting tuning in (again) to Nick & Night's reruns of "Three's Company," so I'm particularly broken up because I just saw him performing last night. And now he's gone.
John's comic timing, pratfalls and outrageous performances as Jack Tripper were an "all you can eat" staple of my and my brother's lives when we were growing up in the 80s. John's famous one-liners have been forever burned into my brain.
Over the years, when I've performed in community theater, every time there was an opportunity to make people laugh, I felt like I had John whispering, "Do it like this." I may have tried to be like John, but no actor will ever come close to the real thing.
He may be gone from this earth, but I'm happy that his genius will live on forever in reruns.
RIP, John. We'll miss you, and we'll never forget you. Thanks for a zillion laughs (and counting) ...
Lord Edzo! -
While I absolutely love "Werewolves of London," I'm not quite sure Warren Zevon fits in with the other two. If we're just looking for a convenient three people to lump together, then great. However, Johnny Cash and John Ritter were a part of American iconography. How many people really even knew who the heck Warren Zevon was? Music aficionados, to be sure, but everyone else... Also, for those who care, let's not forget that tomorrow is the seventh anniversary of Tupac Amaru Shakur's death. (Remember those fools who were all over the net saying that junk about how he faked his death and would return on the seventh anniversary? I loved the guy to death, but I'm betting against it.)
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Now Charlie Bronson, there was, I would say, a man worthy of being the other of the "three" big deaths... Also, I just wanted to say how genuinely happy I am to see that no one is on here writing disrespectful or mean-spirited crap. Considering how nasty many of the talkbacks get, I found myself reading the above rememberance in fear that I would find something vile and cruel in the talkback. I'm proud of you guys. Nothing bad. Keep it up.
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well, if we're remember others who have died recently, Larry Hovis, best known for playing Sgt. Carter, the young American, on Hogan's Heroes, died on Tuesday the 9th. He was also a writer and performer on Laugh-In. For the past 13 years Larry taught drama at Southwest Texas State University. He was a really nice man who also deserves to be remembered. RIP to Larry, John Ritter and Johnny Cash today. :(
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Another great, obscure memory I have of John Ritter is when he was pulled up out of the audience by Robin Williams to do some on the spot improv together. It was after a set of stand up comedy that Williams had done. It was like an HBO special, or something. I haven't seen it in years. Anyway, at the end, Williams pulls Ritter up out of the live audience and they do some hilarious improv together. I particularly remember Ritter doing some terrific physical comedy about being electrocuted. Classic stuff. Does anyone else remember this?
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Like many of us, I grew up watching Three's Company and I have to say it might be my fave sitcom of all time. What always struck me though, was whether it was through interviews or books ("Come and Knock on Our Door" by Chris Mann is excellent) John Ritter always struck me a gentle and genuine soul and very down to earth. ABC must be reeling because his new show was one of the only new sitcom hits they had in years, not to mention the fact that John Ritter had become one of the network's leading faces --he co-hosted the holiday special for cripe's sake. I smile when I think about Norman Fell and John Ritter having a good laugh together right about now. We should all keep him and his family (as well as Mr. Cash - what a day) in our thoughts and prayers. Thanks for the memories John -- from a friend.
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I grew up with Three's Company and Ritter was such a pleasure in so many movies. Such a natural, one of my all time favorite scenes is in Real Men when Ritter's character says to James Belushi's character.. "Now who are those clowns..."? We'll miss you John
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as great as johnny cash was to the field of country music, blah blah, i reckon john ritter's stuff probably meant more to most people under 35. just my two pence.
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This sucks! John gave me so many hours of pure joy as Jack Tripper. Even as a kid I knew that Three's Company was pretty sophomoric, but there was no denying John's talent. His gift for physical comedy was on par with Dick Van Dyke, among others. In addition to the roles already mentioned by the other talk backers, I remember seeing him recently on a News Radio rerun, and thinking that he was sorely underutilized and under appreciated. He will be missed.
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John Ritter was a very funny guy, great actor and all around nice guy from what I understand. The news was unexpected when my wife first told me this morning. I turned on CNN right away to here more. I haven't seen his new show "8 Simple Rules...", but it seems to be quite popular. He will always be Jack Tripper to me though, a show I grew up with and still enjoy on Nick at Night. My heart goes out to his family at this time.
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You ever see the episode of Three's Company, you know the one, it's the one with the misunderstanding...
I always loved the show. I found Jack Tripper to be one of the funniest actors I watched on television growing up. His comic timing was perfect and in "8 Simple Rules..." you got the feeling he would speak to his daughters on the show the same way he would speak to his own children. It was definitely one of the best shows last year that my wife and I love to watch.
I always found John Ritter to be a very underrated actor not just in comedy but drama. One of my favorite movies is Skin Deep. I loved the Star Wars "lightsaber" scene. What made this movie so compelling was not as much the comedy but the underlying story of man dealing with middle age and his growing battle with alcoholism. John pulled this off with gusto. We'll never forget him. -
Sep 12, 2003 2:49:18 PM CDT
This essay missed one very important fact. John Ritter has NEVE
by reedster9898
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John Ritter, boy did that come as a suprise. Frankly, this year has been like Normandy Beach for the entertainment community. That "in memoriam" they do for the Oscars is going to take up half the show.
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was a 1990 NBC TV movie that aired around Christmas time about the life of "Wizard of Oz" creator L. Frank Baum. Ritter played Baum. Though a somewhat fanciful and superficial presentation, it was very moving, and I watch my originally recorded tape every year during the holidays. I could take or leave the rest of Ritter--nice guy, nothing against him, just not someone I ever gave much thought to--but this year's viewing of DREAMER will have a bit more poignancy. RIP Mr Ritter.... tensticks2112@aol.com
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Press the proverbial "reset button". Keep the show's premise, and title (or shorten it to just "8 Simple Rules"). Keep the cast. Recast dad with Bob Saget. Relocate the family to another setting. Modify the parents' occupations and personalities. Modify the characters of the kids, too. Saget isn't doing anything, already has a relationship with your network, and he seems like he could be a good fit for this sitcom. So, this would be an entirely different show that would not share the same continuity at all with the Ritter version. BONUS: Maybe Saget could convince the Olsens to guest star for a sweeps week episde. They could play billionaire heiresses (based upon the Hilton sisters) who corrupt the oldest daughter. Please PayPal $10,000 to my account as my consulting fee. (My account ID is my email address.) You're welcome.
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I have to have seen every episode of Three's Company growing up. They were classics, just great silly comedy with all the sexual innuendos. Still watch them today. Its too soon. Hero at large was cool because growing up it was the closest thing to a comic book superhero movie out. I got goosebumps just watching him in the burning building. Damn shame.Breath Mr. Furly, Breath!!
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Couch Tripper's words are beautiful and moving. Rest in peace John. :(
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What a sad day for comedy and music. I was a big Three's Company fan, grew up with it and its reruns, and loved Stay Tuned. Didn't know he was in Sealab, but I love that show, too. Johnny Cash, you will always be an American Icon. Bless Ya Both. -Stormy
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He will be missed. I even liked Clifford the Big Red Dog. I'm glad to see so many nice things being said about John Ritter, instead of the usual scathing talkbacks. Three's Company was a truly funny show--and what more could you ask from a sitcom? I'm always floored by people who complain that Three's Company wasn't "realistic." These are the same people who love Knight Rider and Alias. Yet for some reason they think Three's Company should be held to documentary standards. Ah, well.
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No disrespect to the great Man in Black, but at least he was old...and sick, too, wasn't he? Put poor Ritter--right out of nowhere, and he had been doing some great stuff lately and seemed like a hell of a cool guy. Damn.
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I have had the privilege of sharing John Ritter's birthday. Oddly enough there aren't many noteable people born on Sept 17th. As a fan of Three's Company and an aspiring comedic actor I was always proud to mention this fact when my birthday rolled around.
Now, only 5 days from the 17th, I am greatly saddened by this news. My thoughts and a huge toast will go out to John Ritter next Wednesday.
Be at peace...funny man of Burbank -
word.
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Ritter will always be president Chet Roosevelt to me. Get your hands on Americathon.
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Real Men was a friggin classic, and everyone hates it. But not me, Ritter and James Belushi took it up a notch and turned total shlock into a damned funny movie. As far as B spy movies go, this was a gem. Go track it down. And dont make a big thing out of it.
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Like veryone else I grew up watching Three's company (even Three's a Crowd) and thought he was great in 8 Simple Rules. It's sucks that times like these finally make us appreciate his talents. :(
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Sep 12, 2003 5:34:08 PM CDT
I enjoyed another dramatic turn of his in MY BROTHERS WIFE. Good
by stonemonkey
Didn't know he married that hottie Amy Yasbeck. Bravo, John! You will be missed.
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People getting emotionally involved in the death of Jack Tripper, save for the cousin who wrote the lengthy obit., are emotionally isolated from society and replace their real friends with colorful, fictional ones they see on television.
This could be a sign of the impending apocalypse. -
Being a night owl, I have been watching Three's Company again on Nick lately. Just last night (this morning) when watching Three's Company, I was thinking that this guy doesn't get the props he deserves for his comedy timing. He made mediocre scripts work. When I heard that his new show was doing well I felt great for both John and Katie Segal who had both had huge hits with very identifiable characters. This is very tragic, especially since he was relatively young with a young family, and his career was back on a high again. My best to his family and friends.
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It's a rare gift when a person is born with the ability to consistently bring laughter to his fellow creatures.
Those Three's Company scripts were terrible, and no other actor could have made them not only bearable, but enjoyable.
Anyone who can't understand why we mourn this loss, is, quite simply, a miserable human being. -
I recently started Reading Stephen Kings "IT" again... as I was reading I was remembering that John ritter was in the TV movie. Always being a fan of his, I got on the computer and ordered "IT" from Future shop to check it out again. Later that night "8 rules..." was on... I decided to check it out (since I was on a Ritter kick)... It wasn't the funniest show I had seen, but it was good and he was good in it. I ended up having a long conversation with my room mate about Three's Company that night and how good it would be to get them all out on DVD... not even 3 days later I am on a Talk Back putting thoughts on John Ritters death. This sucks. I'm sorry for his family and friends.
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Bronson, Ritter, Cash, Peck, Hope ...What is it with 2003?
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I remeber once that an evil babysister turned off the tv when she caught me watching Three's Company.
"what are you doing" I asked...
"you cant watch that," she said whispered "it has gays."
Of course I was only about 8 at the time but I realized at that moment that she was a total idiot. "He only pretends gay!" I exclaimed!...having no idea in this world what the hell that meant...but whenever Mr. Roeper thought he was "gay" the audience sure thought it was funny.
And the glow in the dark penis scene is the BRILLIANT!! -
and I only remember the title becuase John Ritter blew me away with a very heavy duty role that was 180 degrees away from three's company...I was shocked to see him take on a role like that (me being much younger and raised on three's company) he gained status as a versatile actor in my book after seein that...what a bummer.
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I went to bed this morning at 1:50am, and had my radio set to the local news station. At 2am, just as I was drifting off, the national news came on with the lead story announcing the passing of John Ritter. I didn't fall asleep for awhile after that, instead reflecting on the many hours of laughter that was provided by this talented man. But many don't realize what an incredible range John Ritter possessed. Who would have thought that the same actor who played the affable Jack Tripper on "Three's Company" would, many years later, create one of the most poignant characters - the caring and somewhat lonely homosexual - in the remarkable "Sling Blade". When my alarm went off 4 short hours later at 6am, the top news story was the death of Johnny Cash. All I could think of was his recent heartfelt remake of Nine Inch Nails' "Hurt"... probably because that is what I and many others are feeling today. God bless both of these wonderful performers for the countless hours of joy they have brought to a world that is in much need of experiencing joy. You both will be sorely missed.
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Very sad news to wake up to on this Thursday. John Ritter meant a lot to me. When I was a kid I was a class clown. All my idols were comedic actors like Peter Sellers, The Three Stooges, The Marx Brothers...and among that list of classic physical comedians is John Ritter. He will be missed. Peace John. --Steve
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Yes, Stay Tuned was cheesy, but it was gleefully twisted. I mean, come on...'Driving Over Miss Daisy' was worth the $3 rental alone. Ritter was great in that. Gonna miss him.
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A great physical comedian, and a great person. He will be missed.
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Heard about it while dozing off this morning. Radio was low, heard Johhny Cash's name and then a run down of John Ritters carreer. I flipped out and turned up the radio. I knew anyway, but didn't believe it. Told my brother tonight...he didn't talk for two minuites man. God bless Johns and his family. Awful.
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Incredibly sad. As an Gen-X'er can attest, John was our first exposure to incredible, physical comedy. Long before any of us knew who Jerry Lewis was, we were chortling to John after school. Not fair. Way too young, and a truly undervalued performer. All Prayers to your family, and please, now you can tell mr Roper you aren't gay. Godspeed, John.
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Not since the death of John Belushi has the death of an actor upset me so profoundly as John Ritter
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I've loved Three's Company forever, so when I hit the sack around three every night it's a great thing to just have the episodes on while I go to sleep. More often than not though I'm compelled to lift my head up and check out a gag I know is coming, a Ritter pratfall for a Ritter expression. And then I can't stop watching - even if I've seen every episode of the show countless times in syndication. So I'm up until four in the morning, but it's worth it. It feels weird to be a little upset at a celebrity death - however untimely, however tragic - it's somebody I only knew through their work, so it's a testmanent to Ritter's talent that I feel like somebody took all the wind out my sails today. I'm glad people are mentioning Skin Deep, which is a movie I didn't think anybody liked. His role in Bogdanovich's They All Laughed was another memorable one - very Tripper-esque - but I'll jump on board the Skin Deep bandwagon and tell every casual Ritter fan out there to pick it up if they want to see the man's versatile talent at it's best. Rest in peace.
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all of these are really making me feel better. I am reading these with some family and I can't express how touching it is that you guys enjoyed john. As a fequent talkbacker and shit talker I fully expected a lot of shit talking, but I was wrong. You are a wondeful group of people, and you've made this day much easier to swallow. If you think about it, raise a glass tonight and think of something funny he did. He'd be stoked. Thanks again.
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I grew up watching Three's Company. I was just a kid and most of the humor was over my head, but John Ritter's physical comedy made me laugh for hours. I found myself acting like Jack Tripper more than once. Later in life, thanks to Nick At Nite, I fell back in love with Three's Company and the jokes all clicked this time around and I appreciated the show on a whole other level. I followed his career and really enjoyed all of his work. Unfortunately I did not get the chance to see him on stage, but I read excellent reviews of his performance. This news, of course, comes as a great shock to me. I was just watching Three's Company last night and talking to my girlfiend about what a great talent John Ritter is. My thoughts and prayers go to his family, especially his young children. Thanks again for the laughs, John. You will be missed.
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Sep 12, 2003 8:16:26 PM CDT
Watching "Bad Santa" now will be very bitter-sweet...
by fatal discharge
- his last film role and with Billy Bob again with whom Ritter was so good in Sling Blade, I was really looking forward to the film. Now I won't be able to watch it without thinking of Ritter's untimely death. People who bring others so much joy like he did are precious and their loss is doubly sadder. He was a genuinely warm and down-to-earth person in real life too without a huge ego. He will be missed.
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You're right, Hector. I wish I'd remembered that movie the first time I posted. Real Men is hilarious, and at least deserves cult classic status. It's also got one of the most delightfully "wacky" comedy scores since The 'Burbs. (Also, I'm fairly certain Men in Black ripped off that whole bit about government agents receiving their top-secret information through tabloid headlines.)
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I was so shocked to hear this terrible news when I first when in here this morning. I don't usually get all worked up over a death of a celebrity, but John Ritter is quite the exception.He constantly made me laugh during his Three's Company days. I absolutely loved that show and just admired John's brilliant performances on that show.Guys like John Ritter don't pass away like this. God took away a great entertainer from us all too soon. My prayers and condolences go out to his family and friends. He will be sorely missed. :(
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I'll miss ya Jack Tripper! But this gets to me even more because about two weeks ago I had (what I thought at the time was) a random dream where John Ritter died. I told only a couple people just because of how strange it was. I thought, silly dream, John Ritter isn't anywhere NEAR death. And this happens? It's kinda scary.
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I hope the gang at the Regal Beagle is spilling one for Jack Tripper. I am still in shock and disbelief that he is gone. John Ritter had a kind of Tom Hanks likeability and rode the ups and downs of his career with a perpetual smile on his face. Even though I haven't seen all his films or all his T.V shows, I always found myself rooting for the guy. God Speed John, I hope you're in a better place.
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Anybody else remember the Walton's episode where the townfolk,including Ritter's Preacher character,becomes riled up by Mein Kampf and decide to have a book burning of all German works?At the end John-Boy asks a woman who speaks German to translate the first sentence of one of the offending books.She reads,"In the beginning,God created Heaven & Earth..."The look of shame and guilt on Ritter's face should have won him the Emmy that year.What an underrated actor.
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I am still in shock that John Ritter is gone so soon. John had a genuine likeability that is so rare nowadays. He always seemed so grateful for everything that came his way and you never saw the guy without a smile on his face. I may not have seen all of his films or t.v. shows but I alwasy found myself rooting for the guy. God Speed John, I hope you're in a better place.
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Another multi-talented yet down to earth star struck down too soon. Denver's greatest fame was years behind him, like Ritter's, and only in their passing do we look back at their amazing bodies of work and realize how much they were underappreciated. RIP.
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WTF??? Of all people, he has to drop dead? I just saw him and his hot wife on Hollywood Squares a few weeks ago! Sad.
I've been watching TV Land and Three's Company is about the only '70s sitcom that's still really funny, IMHO. And for that matter, 8 Simple Rules was about the only funny new sitcom on TV.
His films were really great too, he was perfect in Sling Blade. I was about the only person to see Stay Tuned in the theater, it was way ahead of its time. The man did some great work.
BTW, he'd been doing a lot of promos and specials for TV Land lately, just like Sonny Bono did right before he died. Creepy, huh? -
Sep 12, 2003 10:43:24 PM CDT
I think God and the Devil should get together and convice Death
by sith lord sauron
RIP Mr. Ritter (and I didn't know Tex was his father!).
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Sep 12, 2003 11:24:03 PM CDT
I say this with the utmost respect... but the man really started
by theginger twit
Goodbye john...
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Goodbye John....
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"Come and knock on my grave."
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I heard that Suzanne Sommers wants top billing at Ritter's funeral. I liked John Ritter. Didn't strike me as one of those guys who cared if he was typecast. He seemed to find joy in his work and bringing joy to others. Seemed liked a good guy.
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Our prayers our with you in this time of mourning.
Rest in peace John.... -
In the Sunday Style section of the New York Times, they have a regular column called "A Night Out With..." where the writer follows a celebrity out on the town. Usually, it's just an excuse to write about some flashy "It Boy" or "It Girl" who's making the scene, doing all of those "trying not to be trendy, but actually are" things, hanging out at parties and clubs that you can't get into. This was not at all the case when John was the subject. It was refreshing to read about how he took his family to an ice cream parlor in NYC, and then made conversation with people who recognized him. We already knew he was a gifted actor. But this article revealed him to be a friendly and down-to-earth family guy. RIP John. We will miss you.
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John Ritter will forever be one of my favorite actors. From his television to movies, I've seen everything he has done at least a dozen times. When I saw this on the internet this morning I busted out in tears, which I never do. He made me happy and I will forever be grateful for that. John, thank you for everything. You touched many lives and made your own dent in the world. My condolences to all of his family and friends.
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I'm generally not shaken by celebrity deaths. They're strangers to me, and they usually live better than the average Joe before they shuffle off. But, this one was a real shocker. I grew up watching John Ritter. THREE'S COMPANY was a classic, and HOOPERMAN was sorely underrated. And, his performance in SLING BLADE was amazing. It's strange, because I just re-watched SLING BLADE again the other night with a couple of friends who hadn't seen it before, and we had a big discussion afterward about how great his performance was, and how he injected a special kind of humanity and integrity in every role he played. That guy was just fantastic, and you could tell he was just an all-around good guy. I honestly haven't felt this bad about a celebrity death since John Candy.
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A certain talkbacker made a comment about people being upset over the death of a star, and placing their importance over a relatives. Well here's the real deal. When a person dies, who has touched your life, you are upset. Whether you knew the person or not, if they had an impact in your life, you lose a part of yourself when that person dies. If that person meant something to you, then they are a friend. And when a friend dies you are sad. I consider John Ritter a friend. Did I know the man? Of course not. But I saw him every week. Every week he came into my home and made me laugh. And he still does to this day. He gave me the gift of forgetting about my problems for 30 minutes and made me laugh. Laughter was his gift and his promise to us. How many people in your everyday life can make that promise? Do I place his importance higher than someone I personally know? Don't be ridiculous. But Mr. Ritter touched my life with his comedic brilliance. And if you follow Hollywood types at all, you know that he was the genuine artice. What you see is what you get. Did he have the most successful career in Hollywood? No. But the success he did get came from his talent. Unlike many of today's Hollywood phonies (are you listening Ben & Jen?), who can attribute their success to their looks and their PR people. It is this trait that will have people experiencing and being touched by Mr. Ritter's work long after Ben's, Jen's, Justin's, Britney's, etc of this generation have gone the way of the dodo. I cherish John Ritter's performances in Three's Company, but also in many films like, Hero At Large, Skin Deep, Stay Tuned, Real Men, and It, just to name a few. His gift for physical comedy is unmatched since the days of Dick Van Dyke. I don't mean physical comedy ala Chris Farley (anyone can fall on a styrofoam table and flatten it). I'm not talking pratfalls. I'm talking performing. Making your face and body tell the story without having to say a word. THAT'S performing. Name me one person in the last 20 years that had more of a gift for it than John Ritter. He was a true comedic genius, and a kind soul. When I heard about his death, I literally paced about my apartment, swearing out loud because it does upset me that much. I'm off now to watch It. Rest in peace, Mr. Ritter. Thank you some much for the laughter. Lord knows we don't have enough of it this day and age. Now with your passing we will have even less. Godspeed Jack.
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There are 3 things that I remember about Ritter: 1) Corey Haim named him his favorite actor on Arsenio. 2) I decided Haim wasn't the idiot I thought he was. 3) Why doesn't this guy get involved with more projects like Sling Blade?
I dug the hell out of John Ritter and I'm sorry to see him gone. God's speed Jack. -
Unlike all the old geezers and chain smokers that have been dropping dead lately, John Ritter was only halfway through his life and some fucked up malfunction kills him. There is no god!
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As corny and goofy as it was, there was a certain comfort in watching Three's Company, because of it's light-hearted and good-natured emphasis on fun, friendship and sex. John was a fine comic actor who often elevated the light scripts up several levels. He will be missed. I never thought I'd get choked up over memories of the good times at Regal Beagle, but it's like we lost a good friend.
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On HOOPERMAN, when Ritter's hospitalized Det. Harry Hooperman, broken legs in casts, uses a walker to chase an old man - also using a walker - who'd been stealing from patients. That is *still* the funniest chase scene I've ever witnessed. A true work of comedic art.
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I`m not making this up. The few times that i`ve seen him do serious bits, he wasn`t phony for one bit. He was convincing and fantastic at it. What a shame! John Candy, Charles Bronson and John Ritter deserved that one last film to immortalises them, to get them into another level, bring them in the big leagues. fuck, I hate that.
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No way CouldRitter have died, No fucking way.........but....things like this happen and it's sadder than all hell......and he was one of my favorite T.V. actors, 8 simple rules was good, I loved him as J.D.'s father on Scrubs, no ones mentioned him as J.D.'s out of work saleman father.
Saddest day ever........
There is no god. -
I'm surprised nobody mentioned John's tragic and icky performance on Felicity as Ben's alcoholic father.
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Ah the 70s
3s company was one of my favorite shows growing up.
Jack tripper was the sleazy older brother I always wanted to have.
I loved the episode where he had 3 dates at the same time and had to use two other apartments. Heh heh heh. There are a shit load of classics. Anyone else remember their favorite Jack Tripper player move? -
This is just the most shocking news. This is the first time I've posted and I wish it didn't have to be for this. I keep thinking maybe I'm having some weird nightmare or something. RIP Mr Ritter. You were a wonderful person and will be sadly missed.
One other piece of business, anybody who used this topic to post some lewd comment (you know who you are) you should have more respect). -
Sep 13, 2003 9:04:06 AM CDT
That was moving .. the best piece of prose this site has put up
by silver_joo
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Very sad news, Hooperman was the Most Underarted Cop Show ever, It's one of the earliest Tv memories I have and Ritter's performance was always highly enjoyable, from seeing him in Hooperman I've followed his career and he always came accross as a likable everyman with a level of Looney Tunes anarchy simmering underneath.
REAL MEN is also one of the most underlooked and maligned screwball comedies of recent times, v. funny and v. sardonic, both Ritter's performance and the film as a whole has been ransacked by many hit movies since.
God bless John! -
Not only was he good friends with Ritter, but with Zevon, and I know he was a mad Cash fan. I feel for him so much. He is my favorite actor.
By the way, Hooperman was a GREAT show!
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I was one of the people who never got into Three's Company--I just always thought Ritter was way too good for the show. Skin Deep is a killer part of my collection. Looks like I'll be expanding to include some of the other Ritter classics I've neglected to obtain. BTW, this year's Oscar memorial segment will be one for the archives, too. And when you recount the names of great talents we've lost, remember Mr. Jeter as well.
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By all accounts a wonderful, kind man in real life, not to mention a great dramatic actor -- in Sling Blade for example -- as well as a brilliant physical comedic thespian. Skin Deep comes to mind as one of his funniest... "Get me the fuck out of here!" Rest in peace, Mr. Ritter.
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I tried to post yesterday but as usual AICN was slow. But in that time I happened to catch Threes Compnay on Nick right after Larry King talked to Richard Kline (Larry), Henry Winkler and Prisicalla Barnes. There was Jack Tripper in jail about to get his ass kicked and the guard mentions he beat up a cop and took his gun (as usual. not exactly the truth) and the cell mates all suddenly back off. Every time Jack moves they move back. It was so hilarious. And I just felt so sad. The thing I loved about Ritter was he was always around. He'd show up in a new series or movie or a guest spot. Look at all the different things he did people have mentioned on here. I was a huge Hero at Large fan. And I still remember asking to stay up late to see the new roommate (Barnes) first appearance. Big props for a wonderful eulogy and to all the TBers. Even the funny ones. Ritter always made us laugh right? My heart goes to his family for their loss. And for ours...
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I TOO REMEMEBR THE ROBIN WILLIAMS HBO SPECIAL THAT JOHN RITTER WAS ON. IT WAS HILLARIOUS. SOMETHING ELSE I FOUND OUT THAT REALLY SHOCKED ME, THAT HE DIED IN THE SAME HOSPITAL THAT HE WAS BORN IN. AND IT WAS HIS DAUGHTERS BIRTHDAY. CAN YOU IMAGINE KNOWING FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE THAT YOUR DAD DIED ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? AS IT HAS BEEN SAID IT IS TRAGIC ALL AROUND. MY THOUGHTS GO OUT TO THE FAMILY, FRIENDS AND ALSO THE FANS. TO QUOTE HIM FROM "SKIN DEEP"(FROM HOW I REMEBER IT) "THERE IS A GOD..AND HE'S A GAG WRITER."
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This is a sin. What can you say? John Ritter was in the same league as Peter Sellers and Jerry Lewis as far as physical comedy is concerned. Thanks for making us laugh for all those years John.
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I heard about this last night, and started crying. Not only was Mr. Ritter an underrated actor (he was also on a very good ep. of Law and Order), but he seemed to be a genuinely nice man. A family guy. I saw this interview with him and his wife (the chick from Wings and Problem Child) and they were so cute. To see how close they were and the fact that he's leaving small children behind is depressing. We lost another good one guys. Fuck . . .
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In what universe?
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The undisputed king of the prat-fall. Nobody has done it better, before or since.
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2 locations:
http://www.matrixology.com/revolutions/trailers/ & http://www.spectaculent.com/ RIP John Ritter. You'll great comedic antics will be missed. :( -
I could say something about John Ritter, but you have all said it and better than I could. This was one time that I didn't want to read nasty talkbacks and I didn't have to. For once! What better thing can be said about John Ritter (as a performer) than that he had the honor of the best talkbacks in history. Wow. My opinion of people in general has gone up while reading the talkbacks today. John Ritter, I hope you can see how they loved you.
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I wonder if anyone here remembers an episode of TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL where Ritter played a kindhearted school teacher who is shot and left for dead by some extremely unpleasant people? He was great on a show that was not exactly known for great acting, or much of anything else.
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I was so weird, I was thinking about that movie the morning just vefore I heard about John's passing. The classic Rankin/Bass imagery, the amazing scenes, such as the mutation of a slowly turning Atomic Bomb falling, exploding into a mushroon cloud then morphing into Ommadon's hulking form with James Earl Jones' cold, menacing voice (made Darth Vader sound like a Powerpuff Girl). The whole cast was great, but Ritter brought such wonderful expressions from desire to faith to awe and wonder being transformed from a simple designer of a board game to becoming a dragon himself. And what about all the tricks he picked up from all the stuntmen who entertained him while his dad, Tex, was busy making movies. Watch "Threes Company" and tell me one other actor besides Jim Carrey who could pull off the physical humor and gags that Ritter did as Jack tripper.What wonders will we never see or hear from him now? Personally, with Goz, Cash, Zevon and now Ritter gone, and the anniversaries of 9/11 and of my dad's death (Lt.Thomas Lorentz, 29 year vet, F.D.N.Y.) coming up soon, I'm really a major mess right now.
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his son very much resembles his dad and from the looks of his bio is very dedicated to acting. While his parts haven't been the st, they are typical career starting roles(similar to Depp's role in the first Nightmare). Hopefully, his son will go on to achieve all the accolades his father would have eventually achieved in a perfect world. The right role in an indie film for John would probably have got himan Oscar, he was that good. While it seems years away, lets look forward to a day his son or possibly another one of his children receive and award and raise in to their father looking on from the heavens. RIP John Ritter.
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My girlfriend asked me to name a movie that always makes me cry and I couldn't6 hink of a single one except for that one...that scene...where the superhero costume is ripped up and the Ritter character is leaving the city after being reviled as a fraud... that made me feel kinda sad. The loss of innocence and faith speech he has with Anne Archer made feel even more depressed. And then he appears on the top of the burning building with the kid ripped up uniform...that gets me choked up...but I can handle all of that...it's when the gas main goes and he falls into the building and the crowd goes silent...and then people start coming out of the cvrowd to gto into the building to get him out..thats when I lose it. Every fucking time...i don't know why. But it seems that every single new hero movie that I have seen doesn't even try to portray heroism so much as victory. That scene to me..a lifelong comic geek...was the most heroic of them all. So thanks John.
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I grew up watching Hooperman here in Scotland-John Ritter's winning smile could brighten up many a dull weekend!
He may be remembered for the Problem Child movies most,sadly,but he made them for a reason,and I respect that.
Even as Ted,he was likeable!
I hope he's sitting around with my best friend Francis, listening to Warren Zevon belt out 'Roland the Headless Thompson Gunner' and having a ball, while Johnny Cash warms up for his set.
A sad year for so many reasons,let's hope 2004 is brighter.
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i've never seen such admiration and sympathy since i started talking in these 2 years ago. I'm proud of you guys.
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I'm the curator of Dead People Server. I'm used to thinking and writing about celebrity deaths, and most of them don't have an impact on me.
So last Friday morning, I was waking up in a hotel in Danville, PA as my family and I were traveling to a wedding. The Today Show opened with images of Johnny Cash, and it was instantly clear that Cash had died. Sad, but no surprise. Then they said something to the effect that "and the television world is mourning the loss of a major star." There's a pause and John Ritter's image appears on the screen.
Oh shit.
I started to tear up over this man I'd never met, but whose work I've enjoyed for nearly 30 years. And I really hated 3's Company, but would sometimes watch it just to watch him work. It was such a shock. I'm greatful his work is so available. I hope Hearts Afire, which was a wonderful little show pops up because he and Markie Post were just great on it.
Thanks very much to Moriarty for the personal writing about John. Ron Howard also paid a lovely tribute to him on Entertainment Tonight this evening.
It's ironic but I find myself thinking quite a lot about John's first wife Nancy Morgan this weekend. She was pregnant with Jason and shot a non-smoking commercial. When the commercial aired, I was pregnant with my daughter. What ever happened to Nancy?
Dead People Server
http://www.dpsinfo.com/dps -
Thanks John, for all your wonderful performances. It's so ironic that one poster mentioned him in that "Waltons" episode, which is one I'll never forget. He was just greatness. Also, to all who loved "Hero At Large", that's one of my favorite films ever. I loved his line, when swooping down on bad guys: "Mind if 'I' drop in?" I still say that line to this day. Loved him in "It"-he and Tim Curry did the best acting in it. Just watched the M*A*S*H episode the other night where he didn't want to go back to the front and Frank Burns pushed him to take action. Fine dramatic work. Nobody's mentioned "Noises Off" (1992), where he plays a jealous actor in a play where everyone has their problems and can't concentrate on rehearsal. John was perfection as the jealous husband of an actress in the play and frequently brought the production to a halt by trying to beat the stuffings out of the leading man. John more than held his own against Carol Burnett, Michael Caine, Julie Haggerty, Christopher Reeve, etc. Great movie and cast, but he'll always be the standout for me. Rent it-you won't be sorry. Soory to say I never saw an episode of his recent series, but I heard him about a year ago on the radio, either talking up the then-new show or doing promos for Nick-at-Nite. He had me and the DJs in stitches. The guy was just hilarious! Goodbye John...you were a class act.
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Harry, I think it would be fantastic for you to forward this incredible Talkback to John's family and friends, just to show how beloved he really was.
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