The Passing of a TV Legend

 

On September 11th, 2003, the world lost a comic legend in the passing of John Ritter.  You could see from the many stories aired on the news, Ritter was well respected by his peers in the entertainment industry. 

 

While many longtime Hollywood legends have passed away this past year, this one has a bigger impact to me because John Ritter was one of the ones I grew up watching.  Along with many of my friends, I grew up watching Three's Company when it was part of ABC's Tuesday comedy lineup in the late 70's and 80's.  No doubt he'll be most remembered for being Jack Tripper.  But certainly, his timing for comedy and ability for pratfalls will remain in our memories forever.  

 

In December of 2000, I had the pleasure of seeing Ritter perform on Broadway with his friend Henry Winkler.  Being able to see him perform his comic genius on stage was certainly a treat.  The role written by Neil Simon was perfect to highlight Ritter's talent.  The fact that he received a long applause before he spoke his first word of dialogue was a sign of how his talents were recognized both on television and stage.  The sentiment is the same among my friends, John Ritter will be missed.