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HEEEEEERE'S eternity
Ed McMahon died at a hospital in Los Angeles this morning, his agent said. The 86-year-old TV personality and former "Tonight Show" sidekick died this morning at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in California, agent Howard Bragman said today. McMahon, who is best known for his role as Johnny Carson's No. 2 on the late-night show, was hospitalized for several weeks in intensive care earlier this year with pneumonia and other illnesses.The famous TV pitchman — who is responsible for bringing the infamous "Heeeere's Johnny!" line into the pop culture lexicon — has promoted a number of products through the years such as Budweiser, American Family Publishers' sweepstakes and, most recently, Cash4Gold.com in a self-deprecating Super Bowl commercial. McMahon also hosted the popular syndicated talent competition "Star Search." But the Hollywood legend fell on hard times recently and became embroiled in financial trouble. His home was reportedly to be placed on the auction block later this month after he fell behind $644,000 on his $4.8 million mortgage. He recently settled lawsuits against a hospital and doctors over difficulties stemming from the broken neck he suffered in fall of 2007. In 2002, he sued various insurance companies and contractors over mold in his house and collected a $7 million settlement. And from his Wiki bio, something that was once common to read about celebrities: During World War II, McMahon was a fighter pilot in the United States Marine Corps serving as a flight instructor and test pilot. He was a decorated pilot and was discharged in 1946, remaining in the reserves. After college, McMahon returned to active duty. He was sent to Korea in February 1953. He flew unarmed O-1E Bird Dogs on 85 tactical air control and artillery spotting missions. He remained in the Marine Corps Reserve, retiring with the rank of Colonel in 1966 and was then commissioned as a Brigadier General in the California Air National Guard. Rest in peace, Ed. God Bless. Posted by: Beavis 2009-06-23 |
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