Home / Arts and Entertainment / Phil Hartman: SNL Icon's Tragic End Recalled
Phil Hartman: SNL Icon's Tragic End Recalled
29 May
Summary
- Phil Hartman was tragically killed by his wife on May 28, 1998.
- He was known as 'The Glue' for holding SNL together.
- Hartman voiced characters on The Simpsons and starred in NewsRadio.
Eight-and-twenty years ago today, on May 28, 1998, the entertainment world mourned the sudden and tragic death of comedian Phil Hartman. The celebrated Saturday Night Live performer was fatally shot by his wife, Brynn Omdahl, in their home.
Omdahl reportedly confessed to a friend before police arrived. Toxicology reports later indicated alcohol, cocaine, and antidepressants were in her system. Omdahl died by suicide shortly after Hartman's death.
Hartman, affectionately known as 'The Glue' for his integral role on SNL, was lauded for his versatility. He brought to life iconic characters and masterfully impersonated numerous public figures, including Bill Clinton and Donald Trump.
Beyond his SNL tenure, Hartman's distinctive voice was heard as Lionel Hutz and Troy McClure on The Simpsons. He also starred in the sitcom NewsRadio and appeared in films such as Jingle All the Way. His immense popularity earned him a posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2014.
