John Barrymore came from a long line of theater actors. He himself first appeared on stage alongside his father in 1900, and in 1903 officially began his career, starring in the likes of Justice (1916) and Richard III (1920). His greatest role was his 1992 appearance in Hamlet, for which he was dubbed “the greatest living American tragedian.”
Barrymore also starred in a slew of silent films, most notably Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1920), Sherlock Holmes (1922) and Beau Brummel (1924). He later made the transition to sound movies, starring in the likes of Grand Hotel (1932) and Midnight (1939).
On May 29, 1942, Barrymore died at the age of 60 from pneumonia and cirrhosis. What happened next has been the subject of many rumors. It’s alleged his friends, Errol Flynn, W.C. Fields and Sadakichi Hartmann snuck into the morgue where his body was being held, propped him up against a poker table and allowed him to experience one final celebration.
As it turns out, these rumors are true! In an August 2020 episode of the popular YouTube series Hot Ones, the acting legend’s granddaughter, Drew Barrymore, revealed his corpse had actually been stolen.
“Not only yes, but there have been cinematic interpretations of it,” she exclaimed. Those interpretations include S.O.B., starring Julie Andrews, and allegedly the 1989 comedy Weekend at Bernie’s, in which two friends pretend their deceased boss is alive.
Barrymore added that she wants the same to happen to her. “I will say this, I hope my friends do the same for me. That is the kind of spirit I can get behind. Just prop the old bag up, let’s have a few rounds.
“I think death comes with so much morose sadness and I understand that, but if it’s okay, just for me, if everybody could be really happy and celebratory and have a party, that would be my preference.”
Vintage Hollywood certainly was a different era…
Соmеdy Lеgеnd Stеvе Mаrtin Аnnоunсеs Rеtirеmеnt frоm Асting аt 75
In a stunning turn of events, Steve Martin, the beloved comedy legend and iconic actor, has officially announced his retirement from the entertainment industry. This news marks the end of a remarkable career filled with laughter, unforgettable performances, and a legacy that will forever be etched in our hearts.
Renowned for his breakout role on “Saturday Night Live” and his impeccable performances in blockbuster films such as “Pink Panther” and “Father of the Bride,” Martin’s decision to step away from acting has caught fans and the industry off guard. At the age of 75, he candidly stated, “Once you reach 75, there’s not much left to learn, only more mistakes to be made.”
Currently shining bright in the critically acclaimed series “Only Murders in the Building” alongside Martin Short and Selena Gomez, Steve Martin has chosen this project to serve as his grand finale. Despite receiving an Emmy nomination for his outstanding performance, Martin has made it clear that this will be his last hurrah, leaving an indelible mark on the world of comedy and acting.
As we bid farewell to this maestro of laughter and entertainment, we are reminded of the countless moments of joy and laughter he brought into our lives. Steve Martin’s retirement is not just the end of an era, but a testament to a lifetime dedicated to making us smile, chuckle, and sometimes even double over with laughter.
Though his absence on the screen will be greatly felt, we can take solace in knowing that his body of work will continue to entertain and inspire generations to come. Thank you, Steve Martin, for the laughter, the memories, and the extraordinary talent you shаrеd with the world.
Leave a Reply