Well, it has happened again. The power of three seems most prevalent in celebrity deaths. Yes, I know that it is complete coincidence and it only seems like it ALWAYS happens this way. But it still bears mention when it does come up.
So this summer we have the following:
George Carlin – There may be a few people funnier, a few more determined to effect change, a few sharper wits in the world by there is no one who combined intellect, humor and brutal direct revalation the way Carlin did. I listened to a lot of his material growing up and along with making me laugh he taught me that language is a complete package. The vulgar and the sublime are not mutually exclusive but exist next to each other. Carlin´ś gift was to use the whole language to make us all see both the promise and the pain of being human.
Bernie Mac – I have much less to say about Bernie Mac since I was not as big of a fan. I certainly had my share of sore ribs watching him and as a contribution to the world, that´s a pretty good legacy.
Isaac Hayes – I know that Isaac Hayes is known in many places primarily as a musician but I can´t say I´ve ever heard any of his albums. I am a huge fan of the theme from Shaft (but who doesn´t). I know him mostly as the King of New York opposite Kurt Russel in Escape from New York. Every where I saw him make an appearance on TV he just commanded the room. A huge personality and someone who seemed to really enjoy the life he had found himself in.
Who will it be next season? The celebrity death watch continues.
