E! True Hollywood Story Season 2 Episode 23 Phil Hartman
- September 6, 1998
Phil Hartman was a beloved comedian and actor who rose to fame with his comedic roles on Saturday Night Live and as the voice of several iconic characters on The Simpsons. However, his life was tragically cut short in 1998 when he was murdered by his wife, Brynn. The E! True Hollywood Story season 2 episode 23 delves deep into the life and career of Phil Hartman, exploring his early beginnings, rise to fame, and the shocking events that ultimately led to his untimely death.
Born in Canada in 1948, Hartman was raised in Southern California and developed a love for comedy at a young age. He began performing in local clubs and eventually landed a job writing for The Groundlings, a sketch comedy theater in Los Angeles where he worked alongside future SNL stars like Paul Reubens and Jon Lovitz. It wasn't long before Hartman himself was discovered by the SNL producers and offered a spot in the show's iconic cast.
On SNL, Hartman quickly became a fan favorite for his impeccable impressions, including Ronald Reagan, Frank Sinatra, and Bill Clinton. He also created memorable original characters, such as Unfrozen Caveman Lawyer and Anal Retentive Chef. Hartman's skills as a writer were also on full display, as he contributed to some of the show's most iconic sketches, including "The Sinatra Group" and "The Sweeney Sisters."
After SNL, Hartman continued to work in television and film, appearing in popular shows like The Simpsons, NewsRadio, and 3rd Rock from the Sun. He also lent his voice to several animated films and TV shows, including the Disney classic Beauty and the Beast. Hartman was a versatile performer, equally adept at comedy and drama, and his talent continued to shine onscreen.
However, behind the scenes, Hartman's personal life was tumultuous. He married his third wife, Brynn Omdahl, in 1987, and the couple had two children together. However, Brynn struggled with addiction and mental health issues, and their relationship was often fraught with tension. In 1998, Brynn flew into a rage and shot Phil while he slept in their bed, before turning the gun on herself.
The E! True Hollywood Story episode on Phil Hartman examines the events leading up to his tragic death, including Brynn's struggles with addiction and mental health issues. The show also explores the impact of Hartman's death on his friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry, who were devastated by the loss of a beloved performer.
Throughout the episode, various friends, family members, and industry professionals reflect on Hartman's life, sharing stories of his talent, work ethic, and infectious sense of humor. They also speak candidly about the challenges he faced in his personal life, and the impact his death had on those closest to him.
Overall, the E! True Hollywood Story season 2 episode 23 provides a comprehensive and moving look at the life of Phil Hartman. It celebrates his contributions to the world of entertainment and honors his enduring legacy as one of the most talented and beloved performers of his generation.