When, within days or hours, three world famous American icons pass, and the social media elements of the Internet become strained to capacity dealing with the torrential mass of morbid news...and media buzz goes overboard by suggesting that this may be remembered as the week America died. The Whole Damn Net extends its heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and fans of the departed. And, now adds its perspective.
Ed McMahon, announcer and spokesperson was for years a fixture of late night television as Johnny Carson's sidekick. He became a voice for Budweiser and American Family Publishers. Ed was a kind grandfather who was reportedly was generous to a fault. He was 84 at the time of his passing.
Farrah Fawcett, actress and former poster girl, was instantly recognizable for her brilliant smile and golden blonde hair. She was not only exceptionally photogenic, she was intelligent and desperately desired to live. Her life, tragically followed the script of her true love's breakthrough film role. It was Love Story redux. During her last year of life she produced a movie about her battle with cancer. She was 62 at the time of her passing.
Michael Jackson, prolific song writer, gifted singer, talented dancer was truly a one of a kind talent. His achievements in the performing arts will live on for as long as there is electricity and a medium for playing music. He, like one of his idols, Elvis Presley, whose daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, he married, is destined to become an even larger iconic figure in death in the decades to come. He was 50 at the time of his passing.
Billy Mays, pitchman extraodinare. A TV personality who is widely known for his infomercials. He also was 50 at the time of his passing.
Gale Storm, a "B-movie" star of the 1940's transitioned into a TV star whose comedy series included "My Little Margie" and "Oh! Susanna! She first appeared on radio and also made a number of hit records including the million seller - "I Hear You Knocking". She was 87 at the time of her passing.
Fred Travalena, a talented impressionist and comedian who worked with Frank Sinatra and appeared as a frequent guest on The Late Show with Johnny Carson. He was 66 at the time of his passing.
David Carridine, film and television actor, best remembered for his role in the TV series Kung Fu, passed away while fooling around in Thailand. David was the first of a series of TV icons who departed this month. He was 72 at the time of his passing.
