So many people have shared their own personal stories about the late Norm Macdonald. Since his passing was announced today, the messages are endless. Over the course of his career, Macdonald brought his dry and often times cynical comedic delivery to the world. Now, even Ken Jennings, Jeopardy! legend has shared his own message about the late comedian.
While there have been wordy tributes and memorials to Macdonald, Jennings kept things simple. No words. Just a screenshot from one of the greatest roles he ever played on SNL. Burt Reynolds on Celebrity Jeopardy! This is obviously one of the best skits to ever exist in the history of Saturday Night Live. It is also obvious why Jennings feels a special connection to the joke and the role. Look at the tweet below.
Everyone knows the classic skit. Where Norm Macdonald as Burt Reynolds terrorizes Alex Trebek played by Will Ferrell. Getting all the answers snarkily wrong and confidently hitting the buzzer, Macdonald’s character makes a mockery of the game. It is one of the best skits ever in the history of the late-night show.
With so many wonderful roles over his career, Macdonald is one of the most universally beloved comedians. The Canadian found his own style and voice and took off with it. Along the way he made millions laugh, think, and for at least a brief moment relax. His talent and character are unmatched and will be missed by many around the world.
Norm Macdonald on ‘Weekend Update’
While Celebrity Jeopardy! is one of the most well-known skits Norm MacDonald was part of, his usual role was behind the news desk. As the anchor of SNL’s “news” segment, MacDonald made the role his. There have been few that have been able to master the satire and nuance needed for the position. However, over the years Macdonald is still considered the best to do it by many.
One of the most memorable moments that happened during his time behind the desk, the O.J. Simpson verdict. While it was ongoing, the Simpson trial enthralled America. From the car chase on the highway to the actual trial itself. One of America’s most beloved athletes on trial for murder. The drama wrote itself. While there are very strong opinions on how the verdict should have gone, ultimately Simpson was let off the hook and acquitted. It shook the country and shocked those who watched the hours of courtroom drama.
Norm Macdonald did not hold back any punches against Simpson following the verdict. The comedian joked that “murder is now legal” in California. He went on a series of jokes that got at the heart of what many Americans felt about the trial and was able to make it something brilliant. He didn’t stop for anything and even when you thought he was done, he went back in. There will never be another like him.
