Roger Ebert was a part of my popular culture world for many years. I was deeply saddened and a bit surprised to learn of his passing this past week, since he was posting on Twitter just a couple of days before news of his death was announced on Thursday. Ebert battled various health related issues for the past several years, but clearly his mind was as sharp as ever, right up until the very end.
I have many fond memories of the syndicated Siskel and Ebert/At the Movies program, with Ebert and the late Gene Siskel, and was a regular viewer for many years. Part of the appeal was the rapport between the legendary critics, but what drew me in more than anything was the intelligence that was exhibited by both men, who were also clearly passionate about the world of film. Both Siskel and Ebert influenced me to voice my opinions about the entertainment world, not just film, through this blog.
I remained an avid viewer of At the Movies even after Roger Ebert departed due to health issues in 2006 and was very pleased to watch the revival, Ebert Presents At the Movies, which aired on PBS in 2011. In recent years, I have also had the pleasure of following Roger Ebert on Twitter and reading his memoir, Life Itself, in 2011. Ebert tweeted about a variety of subjects, including politics, and his progressive political opinions were as keen and intelligent as his movie reviews. Roger Ebert will indeed be missed, but he gave his fans, readers and viewers many gifts that will never be forgotten.
I trust the balcony has already reopened in a better place.
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