I was saddened today to hear of the death of comedian, author, and artist Jonathan Winters at age 87. I remember him with great fondness from my childhood -- his bizarre, lightning-quick improvisational style was so unique and so funny. There really was no one like him until Robin Williams came along -- and Williams himself gave complete credit to Winters as his prime influence. Winters was sharp as a tack, yet sweet. Everyone loved him.
Jonathan Winters on "The Tonight Show" with Jack Paar, 4/64
Although I enjoyed all his comic performances on TV and the movies, it is Winters in a serious role that I recall most today, showing the great range he had as a performer. His co-star in this 1961 "Twilight Zone" episode called "A Game Of Pool" is Jack Klugman, also primarily known as a comic actor but with great dramatic skills. Klugman died last December, age 90. Ah, good stuff. RIP.
A Game Of Pool #1
A Game Of Pool #2
A Game Of Pool #3
© Copyright 2008- Marianne Spellman