Very sad news for the world of comedy today,the cleverly caustic and controversial comedian George Carlin has died. He was 71 years old and the apparent cause is a heart attack. My most sincere condolences to his family and friends are no doubt part of the many being sent their way by all those who were touched by his greatness.
I can still remember when we first got HBO on our TV and one of the first comedy specials that we all watched together as a family was one of Carlin's. My dad loved his specials and for years,it was always must-see TV whenever a new Carlin special was announced. Carlin's down to earth cynicism laced with verbal wit was a huge influence on how I not only thought about comedy but about many of the big issues in life as well.
While Carlin made his presence known on TV and in films,it was his work as a stand up comedian that he'll be best remembered for.
His career on stage was one which grew and evolved over the years,mixing sharp social commentary with bits of linguistic analysis and some good old fashioned bathroom humor. Yes, he said a number of things for shock value but the whole point of that was to point out the silliness of being shocked by such things in the first place.
George set the tone for other comedians who wanted to make people think as they laughed at his routines,giving audiences a spoonful of sarcasm sugar to make the mental medicine go down.
He wasn't a guy who sprouted off on his soapbox(he'd be most likely to knock one out from underneath someone)but he wasn't shy about saying what he felt and not giving a damn if it ruffled a few feathers. There are not many people who can do that as an art form and elevate the medium they're working in at the same time,another good reason to mourn his passing.
So,fare thee well,Carlin. I hope you meet up with my dad out there where the Big Electron glows. The two of you will have plenty to talk about,trust me. As my tribute to the man and his comic genius,here are some of my favorite moments of George Carlin doing his stuff:
A TWO FOR ONE SOLUTION FOR CRIME AND BALANCING THE BUDGET
THE MODERN MAN RAP
CHICKENS ARE DECENT PEOPLE
THE PLANET IS FINE,THE PEOPLE HOWEVER....
CARLIN ON CHILD CARE
GET READY FOR RANDOM ANGER
IS IT REALLY THE QUIET ONES YOU HAVE TO WATCH?
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