R.I.P. — George Carlin (May 12, 1937 — June 22, 2008)
By now, you’ve probably read or heard that comedian George Carlin died yesterday. Known mostly for his comedy specials on HBO, Carlin actually appeared in a bunch of movies, including the notable role of Rufus in Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989) and television — who can forget him as the Conductor for “Thomas the Tank Engine”. His acerbic, insightful wit will be missed. Here’s some video excerpts from one of his one-man shows where Carlin ruminates about death.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PiZSFIVFiU
UPDATE: Here are some obituaries and reflections on George Carlin — LA Times, Village Voice, Daily Variety, Hollywood Reporter, and the New York Times.
UPDATE #2: Some thoughts from satirist Harry Shearer.
UPDATE #3: Comics weigh in with thoughts about Carlin in today’s (6/24/08) L.A. Times.
UPDATE #4: Jerry Seinfeld in a N.Y. Times column.
UPDATE #5: HBO to remember Carlin by airing most of his 1-hour comedy specials per this schedule on Wed and Thu.