A portrait of Gilda Radner, the beloved comedian and original SNL cast member. She changed the world of comedy forever, and her absence will be felt deeply. Radner was instrumental in the success of SNL’s first season from 1975, as one of the original “Not Ready for Prime-Time Players.” Ulna’s Austin reinvented audiences with her incomparable imitations, from Baba Wawa to Roseanne Roseannadanna. Her impact didn’t stop at the television screen, as she made waves in films such as The Woman in Red and Haunted Honeymoon.
Her personal life mirrored her career in that it too was both a great success and a great sorrow. She wed actor Gene Wilder in 1984. Their partnership endured until her premature death from ovarian cancer at 42 in 1989. Prior to Wilder, Radner was married to SNL bandleader G.E. Smith. Radner experienced enormous professional successes, but suffered very painful and necessary personal losses at an early age. By the time she was 20 years old, she had lost her only brother, her mother and her father.
Around this time, in 1972, Radner met Martin Short during a Toronto production of Godspell. Though their romance didn’t last in the long run, the pair dated on and off for several years. Just ask Martin Short, who reminisced fondly about the late Gilda Radner on Amy Poehler’s “Good Hang” podcast. He spoke of her creativity and contagious energy, honoring the spirit of a trailblazer.
"She was just… I've said this before, but every girl wanted to be her best friend," said Martin Short.
Looking back on their years together, Short remembered how he was completely enchanted by Radner’s spirit and spark.
"And, you know, I fell for her madly," he confessed.
Short still credits his wonderful memories of Radner to the pair’s youthful bond, even after their separation.
"You know? But I was only 22. I didn't understand," he remarked.
Radner’s legacy lives on today with both her fans and fellow comedians, due to her pioneering work and iconic characters. Her life and career are a testament to her extraordinary talent and perseverance. She was such a beautiful spirit and gave so much happiness and love to all of us.
