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Bruno Kirby, 1949-2006
“Oh yeah, I remember him. He was great in that.”
Bruno Kirby was one of those actors who often inspired that line. He was the classic definition of a character actor. He was never particularly famous, and maybe you didn’t always remember his name, but his was one of those faces (and voices) you were always glad to find in the movies.
Sadly, he died Monday at the age of 57. He had recently been diagnosed with leukemia.
His first big role was as the young Clemenza in The Godfather Part II, but he’s best known for his appearances in comedies, particularly with the Rob Reiner/Billy Crystal crowd. I think the best way to pay tribute to him is to remember some of his classic lines, as only he could deliver them.
“Excuse me…but are you reading ‘Yes I Can’ by Sammy Davis Jr? You know what the title should be? ‘Yes I Can But Only If Frank Sinatra Says It’s OK.’” - as Tommy Pischedda in This is Spinal Tap.
“Furthermore, you are to stick to playing normal modes of music, not weird stuff. Those who we’d find acceptable here would include Lawrence Welk, Jim Nabors, Mantovani…
(Robin Williams interjects): Percy Faith…
“Percy Faith, good! … Andy Williams, Perry Como, and certain ballads by Mr. Frank Sinatra.” - as Lt. Steven Hauk in Good Morning Vietnam.
“Shut up! Just shut up! He doesn’t get it! He’ll never get it! It’s been 4 hours! The cows can tape something by now!” - as Ed in City Slickers.
And my personal favorite:
“You made a woman meow?” - As Jess in When Harry Met Sally…
You will be missed, Bruno. Farewell.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Categories: Tributes
Comments
By Karen
August 17, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this
He will be missed, for sure! He had a face, a voice and the talent for Hollywood, but he was never the “Hollywood type”. He was merely a funny man with a heart of gold. The good do die young!By SRCputt
August 17, 2006 10:29 AM | Link to this
What made “You made a woman meow” so funny was Kirby’s stunned expression plus the sight of batting machine baseballs continuing to whizz by in the background.