A Tribute to the Late Mr. Frank Gorshin

Yes, there are very few that could do impersonations as well as Mr. Frank Gorshin. Most remembered for his unforgettable laugh when he played the "Riddler" in the original Batman phenomenon, Frank made quite a splash with the young and the old during his fantastic run in the show.

Sitting in the audience in Pittsburgh, PA watching Frank play George Burns in the show, "Say Goodnight Gracie" was fantastic. He impersonated George Burns to surreal perfection and to a standing ovation he gave the best performance of his life. At the end of the show he signed my t-shirt, "Say Goodnight Tracey (my nickname), instead of "Say Goodnight Gracie" and I have my shirt for the rest of my life as a tribute to Frank and his talent.

Over the years, seeing his different shows and his unbelievable talent has left a huge impression on many, including myself. The "Sunshine Boys" was another excellent show that he starred in with Mr. Van Patton. A wonderfully, enjoyable duo created a lot of happiness for those of us that were lucky enough to see it.

When you remember all the work that Frankie did over the years and his fantastic contributions to the entertainment world, it is fair to say there will never be another talent quite like him. None quite capable of the Yamaha - ha - ha - ha - ha that he made so popular. No one able to imitate other characters quite the way he did, as he even took on the resemblance of those famous people's personas that he mastered. Frank Gorshin was exceptional at what he did and made him irreplaceable.

Not long before he passed, my family gave him a party in Pittsburgh before he was to star in "Goodnight Gracie" in his own home town. This was during the time that he was ill, though he did want us to know quite yet, so no one would be sad. We had a wonderful time honoring him and listening to his tales and his laughter. It was an unforgettable evening. Looking back, it was also a time for all of his relatives to spend some time with him, not knowing yet that he was very ill at the time. Those memories of that evening are forever etched in my mind. I can see him, hear his laughter and experience the talent ( which was a blessed gift that was given to him) all over again.

Remembering Mr. Frank Gorshin, my cousin, (an unbelievable talent and a wonderful person) brings a smile to my face. He was laughter, happiness and fun and when all is quiet with the world you can still hear him giggling. Cheers Frankie! We will always love you forever!

Thinking of his passing, the tears start to roll down my cheeks and land next to fingertips as I write. But, Frank wasn't about sadness. He was about smiles and giggles and then, suddenly you must wipe away the tears and make way for the laughter again, because he could make you in a heartbeat.

Bravo, Frankie! Thank you for your talent, your laughter and your love. All I have to do is close my eyes and I can see him once again up on the stage making the whole world laugh. His zest for life and humor was healing for many people. Never to be forgotten, Mr. Frank Gorshin was a stellar performer that will always be missed, by his family, friends and his fans.