#12: Tragic Losses
It’s not all fun and laughs, even in a comedy show. This sad reality has claimed many from the SNL family, leaving a trail of heartbreaking losses. John Belushi and Chris Farley are two stars who succumbed to the relentless grip of addiction. Gilda Radner, pictured below, the dynamic Danitra Vance, and the witty Tom Davis all tragically lost their battles to cancer.
The world of comedy was dealt a tragic blow when Charles Rocket, a cherished cast member, tragically took his own life. Adding to the sorrow was the untimely demise of Michael O’Donoghue, who succumbed to a brain hemorrhage at the tender age of 54. O’Donoghue was not just the show’s inaugural head writer but also had the unique distinction of being the first person to ever speak a line on the show.