Refresh for updates. An outpouring of fond remembrances is filling the online world as news of Neil Simons death spreads. Actors and others who worked with him saluted his career, and those who merely enjoyed his works also shared their thoughts on one of the worlds most popular playwrights.
Simon died last night in New York City at age 91 from pneumonia complications. He was the creator of Barefoot in the Park, The Odd Couple and countless other major plays, and was also a film screenwriter. His works won him a Pulitizer Prize and several Tony Awards.
Matthew Broderick, who starred in Simons Eugene Trilogy and The Odd Couple, issued a statement to Deadline on his passing. “It was my great good fortune that my very first Broadway play was written by Neil Simon. He also wrote my first film. I owe him a career. The theater has lost a brilliantly funny, unthinkably wonderful writer and even after all this time I feel I have lost a mentor, a father figure, a deep influence in my life and work. Love to Neils family and to all of us.”
Simons “Eugene Trilogy” followed the life of Eugene Jerome and his adolescence in New York City. It was partly based on Simons own life. The plays included Brighton Beach Memoirs, Biloxi Blues and Broadway Bound. Broderick starred in Brighton and Biloxi and reprised his role in the film version of the latter. Jonathan Silver starred in Broadway Bound on stage and in the film adaptation of Brighton while Corey Parker starred in the big-screen version of Broadway Bound.
Nathan Lane also sent a remembrance. “Neil Simon will always be one of my theatrical heroes and I am so proud to have played a small part in his unparalleled career and remarkable legacy. My heartfelt condolences to his wife Elaine and the entire Simon family.”
Read more tweets below, including one from Thomas Lennon, who starred in the CBS comedy adaptation of The Odd Couple..
Neil Simon – gone! A loss 4 the entire entertainment industry.
He could write a joke that would make you laugh, define the character, the situation, and even the world's problems. First time I met him he looked at me and said, "Where the hell did they find you?" What a gent.— Harvey Fierstein (@HarveyFierstein) August 26, 2018
To say that #NeilSimon was one of the primary influences on my life and career would be an understatement. His work, as both a participant and audience, has defined and shaped me on my own journies and carr@eer trajectory. RIP to another lost legend.
— Josh Gad (@joshgad) August 26, 2018
There is no American comedy writer whose work isnt influenced by the rhythm and music of Neil Simons words. With gratitude, Doc.
— Bill Prady (@billprady) August 26, 2018
Neil Simon brought a unique eye for life to stage and screen. Through sharp characters and dialogue, he prodded us – in laughter and tears – to contend with the traits that make us human. Another voice who understood the power of art in our American story now belongs to eternity.
— Dan Rather (@DanRather) August 26, 2018
“Theres no more money anyone can pay me that I need. There are no awards they can give me that I havent won. I have no reason to write another play except that I am alive and I like to do it”-Neil Simon #RIP GIANT of the American Theatre #ThanksForTheLaughs pic.twitter.com/NZIVGPLdst
— Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) August 26, 2018
When someone commends me on having been a funny kid, I always say "That was the writer." No one ever looks funnier than when Neil Simon's words are coming out of their mouths.
A kind, brilliant man has left us today. May his memory be a blessing to his loved ones. https://t.co/hxPvqeRC4z
— Quinn Cummings (@quinncy) August 26, 2018
Thank you Neil Simon.
— Thomas Lennon (@thomaslennon) August 26, 2018
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