An old friend of mine, film critic Joel Siegel, just passed away from cancer at 63. These days, that’s young. Years back Joel was part of a regular poker game at my house in Echo Park. I owe him big time for a review he wrote of my novel The Big Fix in the LATimes back in the Seventies. It helped jump start my career. Later on he would review movies I wrote on ABC, not always as kindly. By then we were living on opposite coasts and wouldn’t see each other as often. But when we did, it was always relaxed and amusing. Joel Siegel liked to laugh.
It’s a loss. All I ever saw was on-air, but he was always earnest & sincere, and never cynical nor condescending. That’s always a refreshing attitude.
I sorry for the lose of your friend, far too early. My heart goes out to family and friends.
I’m sorry to hear this. I remember him from my years back in NJ(Az now)and I agree with every word of Buddy’s. He also had a BEAMING smile.
Roger,
I have been away for a while but am glad to be back reading your blog. Sorry to hear about your friend’s passing. Fortunately, I have in recent years had the good fortune to meet mentors and others who shaped my life and have made it a point to let them know the role they played in my story. Without exception, they were surprised to learn of their positive impact. I hope Mr. Siegel knew of your appreciation before he passed.