35 Facts About Phil Hartman

Early Life and Family Background

Phil Hartman, a name synonymous with comedy, had a life filled with interesting twists and turns. Let's dive into the early years of this talented comedian.

1. Philip Edward Hartman was born on September 24, 1948, in Brantford, Ontario, Canada.
2. He was the fourth of eight children in a devoutly Catholic family.
3. His parents, Rupert and Doris Hartman, often struggled to give each child the attention they needed.
4. This lack of attention influenced Hartman's decision to pursue a career in acting and comedy.

Move to the United States

A significant move in Hartman's life set the stage for his future success in the entertainment industry.

5. At the age of ten, Hartman's family moved to the United States.
6. This transition marked the beginning of his journey in a new country where he would eventually find fame.

Education and Early Career

Hartman's educational background and early career choices played a crucial role in shaping his future.

7. He attended Westchester High School in Los Angeles, where he developed his skills as a class clown.
8. After high school, he studied graphic arts at California State University, Northridge (CSUN).
9. His education in graphic arts led him to open his own graphic design company.
10. Hartman's design business flourished, creating over 40 album covers for bands like Poco and America.
11. He also designed the logo for Crosby, Stills, and Nash.

Discovery of Comedy

Hartman's journey into comedy began while he was still working in graphic design.

12. In 1975, he started attending classes with the comedy group The Groundlings in Los Angeles.
13. The Groundlings, known for its improvisational comedy, was the perfect platform for Hartman to hone his comedic skills.
14. His natural talent and adaptability quickly made him a standout performer.
15. He was soon invited to join the troupe.

Groundlings and Pee-wee Herman

Hartman's time with The Groundlings was instrumental in his career, leading to significant collaborations.

16. During this period, he helped develop the character Pee-wee Herman with Paul Reubens.
17. Their collaboration led to the creation of the film Pee-wee's Big Adventure.
18. This project showcased Hartman's writing and acting abilities.

Saturday Night Live (SNL)

Joining SNL was a turning point in Hartman's career, catapulting him to national fame.

19. In 1986, Hartman joined the cast of Saturday Night Live (SNL).
20. His unique characters, such as the Unfrozen Caveman Lawyer, made him an instant success.
21. He was known for his impressions of Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, Charlton Heston, and Ed McMahon.
22. By the time he left SNL in 1994, Hartman had won a Primetime Emmy Award for his work as a writer.
23. He had also been nominated for another Emmy as a performer.

The Simpsons

Hartman's voice work on The Simpsons is another significant aspect of his career.

24. He voiced a variety of characters, including Troy McClure and Lionel Hutz.
25. His contributions to The Simpsons made him a beloved figure in the world of animation.
26. He was one of the eight actors to have portrayed Ronald Reagan on the show.

NewsRadio

After leaving SNL, Hartman continued to showcase his versatility as an actor.

27. He joined the cast of the sitcom NewsRadio.
28. Hartman played the role of Bill McNeal, an arrogant and clueless radio news anchor.
29. This role highlighted his ability to play both comedic and dramatic parts.

Personal Life

Hartman's personal life was marked by both joy and tragedy.

30. He experienced two divorces before marrying Brynn Omdahl in 1987.
31. Despite his on-screen success, Hartman struggled with maintaining a stable personal life.
32. His third marriage to Brynn Omdahl was particularly tumultuous due to her struggles with substance abuse.

Tragic Death

The end of Hartman's life was as shocking as it was tragic.

33. On May 28, 1998, Phil Hartman was tragically killed by his wife Brynn in their Los Angeles home.
34. The incident was a result of Brynn's struggles with cocaine addiction and the couple's troubled marriage.
35. The news of Hartman's death shocked the entertainment industry and fans worldwide, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain.

Phil Hartman's Lasting Impact

Phil Hartman left an unforgettable mark on comedy and entertainment. From his early days with The Groundlings to his iconic roles on Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons, Hartman's talent and versatility shone brightly. His characters, like the Unfrozen Caveman Lawyer and Troy McClure, remain beloved by fans. Despite personal struggles and a tragic end, Hartman's legacy endures through his work and the laughter he brought to millions. His posthumous inductions into the Canada and Hollywood Walks of Fame highlight his lasting influence. Phil Hartman will always be remembered as a comedic genius whose warmth and professionalism touched everyone he worked with. His contributions continue to inspire new generations, proving that great comedy truly stands the test of time.