I have returned from a self-imposed blog sabbatical, where I actually spent more time reading books (memba them) and interacting with people instead of my laptop. Well, now I am back and ready to prattle on about a myriad of topics. My first blog, fittingly, is a salute to National Grouch Day and provides an overview of some of pop cultures most celebrated grumps from the past and present. Enjoy and have a Happy Grouch Day!
Next time I see you, remind me not to talk to you
GROUCHO MARX was an American comedian and film star who made several movies with his brothers – Chico, Zeppo, Harpo & Gummo – collectively known as the Marx Brothers. As the leader of the comedy troupe, Groucho’s trademark greasepaint moustache, eyebrows, glasses and cigars have become icons of comedy; however, his ascerbic wit and biting remarks are truly grouchy. I highy recommend three Marx Brothers comedies – Duck Soup, A Night at the Opera and A Day at the Races. Believe me, you won’t be disappointed.
I am free of all prejudices. I hate every one equally.
W.C. FIELDS, yet another oldie but goodie who exudes grumpasaurus. He created one of the great comic personas of the early half of the 20th century – a misanthrope, yet a charming drunk who hated children, dogs and women (unless they were the wrong sort of women). Check out My Little Chickadee with Mae West and The Bank Dick to see this comic grump genius at his best.
Who picks out your clothes – Stevie Wonder? (to David Letterman)
DON RICKLES, also known as the Merchant of Venom & Mr. Warmth is an insult comic extraordinaire. You may also know him as the voice of Mr. Potato Head in the Toy Story movies, or most recently saw his appearance on the Emmy Awards with Kathy Griffin, where he won two Emmy’s for his comedy special “Mr. Warmth.” His career has been a lengthy one, due in part to his philanthropy and reputation that his insults are meant in jest and not actual spite.
I hate spunk
Lovable, yet irrascible Ed Asner as Lou Grant on both the Mary Tyler Moore Show and spin-off Lou Grant is another salutable grump. When he first interviewed Mary, he liked her because she had spunk, even though he hated spunk. He offered her the job of associate producer at WJM-News, which paid less than the secretarial position for which she had initially interviewed, but she approved it, saying that she could only afford being an associate producer. Little did Mary know that he offered her a position as producer for even less money.
Good morning, dickhead! Hello moron!
JACK LEMMON and WALTER MATTHAU are in fine form as John and Max, two former friends who live next door to each other, and who for the past 50 years continuously argue and insult each other. Enjoy this clip from Grumpy Old Men.
Where’s the beef?
CLARA PELLER - the grumpy old woman of the 1980’s – found fame starring in a TV ad campaign for Wendy’s where the catchphrase “Where’s the beef?” has become an all-purpose phrase questioning the substance of an idea, event or product. Despite the huge popularity of the commercial, Peller was fired by Wendy’s after she had “found the beef” endorsing Prego Plus Spaghetti Sauce.
Do you smell it? That smell. A kind of smelly smell. The smelly smell that smells…smelly
MR. EUGENE H. KRABS, owner of the Krusty Krab and SpongeBob SquarePants’ boss is one crusty crab. Money, money, money is always on Mr. Krab’s mind and he can usually be found in his office counting cash and tallying up the day’s receipts. Even though SpongeBob gets on his nerves – Mr. Krab really likes that he’s willing to work long hours for very little pay. Money makes the world go ’round! Interesting video which compares Mr. Krab’s pursuit of money to the pursuit of the American Dream and the great American businessman.
Now leave me alone and get lost!
I saved the best grouch for last – Oscar the Grouch, who has been a grouchy presence on Sesame Street since 1969. Did you know that Oscar was originally orange in Season 1? I love that the Children’s Television Network used Jim Henson’s muppet creations to educate children about different behaviour and feelings. It’s OK to be angry and grouchy sometimes – like today, October 15, 2008. Stand up for your grouchy rights. Go ahead – be a grouch- now, go and get lost! But first – Oscar the Grouch and his Grouch Anthem from Follow That Bird.
