Tribute to Fred Willard
Original Airdates: June 12-14, 2020
TVC 497.1: Tony, Donna, and Ed pay tribute to actor, comedian, and improvisational genius Fred Willard (Modern Family, Best in Show, Waiting for Guffman, Fernwood Tonight, Roseanne). Topics include a look at Willard’s early comedy partnership with Vic Greco and his years as a founding member of the improv group Ace Trucking Company; how Willard developed the Jerry Hubbard character on Fernwood Tonight; and a roundup of the various late night tributes from many of Willard’s friends and co-stars. Fred Willard died on Friday, May 15 at the age of 86.
The Everyman Appeal of Fred Willard
Original Airdates: June 12-14, 2020
TVC 497.2: Tony, Donna, and Ed discuss some of Fred Willard’s early TV roles, including D.A. Bud Nugent on Sirota’s Court (a precursor to the character that John Larroquette played on Night Court), and how Willard brought an Everyman quality to just about every character he played. Fred Willard passed away on Friday, May 15 at the age of 86.
