The legendary comedian Phil Hartman is best known worldwide for his performances on Saturday Night Live.
He starred as pompous radio broadcaster Bill McNeal in the NBC sitcom NewsRadio and voiced numerous classic roles, most memorably the infamous Troy McClure on The Simpsons.
Hartman’s life was abruptly cut short when he was fatally shot by his troubled third wife, Brynn while their son and daughter were asleep in the house.
Hartman’s sudden and violent death shocked the world.
Brynn Hartman, who struggled with addiction, then shot and killed herself a few hours later.
The public knew little of Hartman’s troubled marriage or home life and the press ran with the sensational stories for weeks.
In a new book about the extraordinary comic’s life, the years and moments leading up to his untimely end are described through information gathered from interviews with cast mates, close friends and family members.
The author Mike Thomas had access to private letters, audio, video recordings, extensive police records and more.
Thomas describes the challenge of collecting these key contributors to the book:
“He died tragically and unexpectedly, his story was tabloid fodder for many months afterward, which left a lot of people who knew him with a bad taste in their mouths when it came to reporters and the press.
“Some were also reluctant to participate for fear of upsetting Phil’s now-adult children, and at least a few people who were close to him personally and professionally attempted to run interference by asking his friends and colleagues not to talk with me.”
Despite his marital troubles, Phil seemed to be the kind of guy who gave off positive vibes wherever he went and the book reflects his vivacious personality.
Thomas seeks to give the reader a better understanding of Hartman’s professional and personal life.
“For many years and in many minds, Phil’s violent death has overshadowed his colourful life, so I hope this book changes that at least somewhat.”
Mike Thomas, author of ‘You Might Remember Me: The Life and Times of Phil Hartman’ joined Sean on the programme:
