Late Night TV pays tribute to Harold Ramis

The comedy world lost one of its top players way too soon on Monday. Harold Ramis passed way at the age of 69 from autoimmune disease. In case you are unaware of his legacy, it was because of Harold the world was able to party with the caddies of Caddyshack, live the life of a frat boy in Animal House, and help rid the world of ghosts in Ghostbusters. There are countless other flicks as well that Ramis, wrote, directed, acted, or produced too. He was certainly an innovator of all things comedy.

One thing that makes the comedy world so unique is just how close all of its players are and how losing one member sends shock waves throughout the community. Upon Harold’s passing the network of comedians quickly seemed to ban gather and pay tribute to the great legend. Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert quickly jumped out, giving a tribute to Harold on their shows (The Colbert Report and The Daily Show). Of course, every comic knows you cannot dwell on the sad, so the tributes were quick but respectful and honest.

However, Colbert spent a little more time on the sad topic saying, “You may not know, through the movies he wrote or directed, he made your life better and you’ve been quoting his films and the things he’s done for years.” I’d have to say with that little line pretty much hit the nail on the head. Colbert then went on to say, “Thank you to Harold” in a very authentic, non-joking way. Over on @Midnight, host Chris Hardwick spent the night dripping in Ramis-isms here and there. After a commercial break, before a bit, he’d simply and subtly drop in lines from Ramis’s films.

The world has lost its first Ghostbuster and yet another great comedian, way too soon. I suppose the best thing we can do, as a comedy community is remember the man behind the camera on these iconic flicks, instead of just those in front of it. You’ll be missed Harold “Dr. Egon” Ramis.

The Daily Show:

The Colbert Report: