Saturday, September 27, 2008

Paul Newman passes at 83

There are some people who seem ageless and immortal, and Paul Newman was one of those precious few. You can read any number of news articles today profiling his life and achievements (which included a fifth place in the Rolex 24 at Daytona and, more impressively, a second place at Le Mans...he was quite a race car driver). I just want to say simply that I will miss not only his work, but his amazing vigor for life. He was truly an amazing American artist who brought joy to people's lives in many ways, and his philanthropic endeavors are legendary.

The following snippet from The Late Show with David Letterman is a classic piece of Paul Newman. I loved every appearance he made on that show, and it's because it was almost always something like this.



Paul, I wish I could have known you personally.

4 comments:

Lady Holiday said...

At work this morning I broke the news to the salespeople that PN had died and the first thing they did was put a Rolex "Paul Newman" Daytona in the window. It made me sort of mad because the only thing they can think of is how to profit. Then again, is that just good business sense? Anyway, I knew you would blog about him, too, cuz of the racing connection, and I was right.

Donnie Barnes said...

Heh. If I owned a jewelry store and had a Rolex "Paul Newman" Daytona, I'd put it in the window, too. But it wouldn't be for sale. :-(

But I don't fault people that would...I'm sure eBay is brimming with PN "stuff" right now, too. You vote with your dollars on how acceptable it is to you personally.

Anonymous said...

One of my favorite actors...a true gentleman and philanthropist with unparalleled class. I always admired his devotion to his wife and family. He will be missed!

jeepmama said...

50 years of marriage.... unheard of in Hollywood. He always seemed so down to earth, too. Makes me sad that he's gone...