Скачать или смотреть The Friars Club Inducts Debbie Reynolds, with George S. Irving & Carrie Fisher

Remembering Debbie & Carrie, Friars Club style

Written, filmed & edited by Michael Lee Stever
Photos by RD / Dziekan / Retna Ltd / and Getty Images

The Entertainment Industry has been dealt an awful, 'double whammy' the likes of which hasn't been seen in decades, if ever. Countless departed luminaries in 2016 not withstanding, our hearts are heavy with the almost simultaneous deaths of cherished actress/author Carrie Fisher on December 27th followed by her mother, beloved movie icon Debbie Reynolds a mere one day later on December 28th. The final curtain(s) for this amazing mother/daughter duo could only be described as 'Shakespearian' in stature.

Having been fortunate enough to serve as the go-to filmmaker for The Friars Club during Debbie Reynold's now historic induction in 2009, it occurred to me that re-visiting this magical evening might help mend some broken hearts. You'll enjoy the surprise appearance of beloved thespian George S. Irving, who I had the honor of performing with in 'Oliver' at Papermill Playhouse in 1994 and whom Reynolds of course starred opposite in 'Irene' on Broadway in 1973. Ironically, Irving passed on December 26th at the age of 94, just one day before Carrie.

Reynolds and Fisher are survived by Carrie's daughter Billy Lourd, and son/brother Todd Fisher who confirmed that the actresses will be buried together at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, in the Hollywood Hills.

Ensure to watch to the very end as I managed to capture a wonderful interview with Debbie candidly discussing Carrie and her smash hit sojourn on Broadway in 'Wishful Drinking.' There's also a musical mother/daughter duet at the end which will surely move you.

Sandi and I would like to extend our sincere thanks to The Friars Club in New York for having the foresight to honor Debbie Reynolds when they had the chance. Though your hearts may be heavy at present, we're confident they'll be lifted with this journey back in time.

Enjoy, and we're wishing everyone out there a prosperous, and memorable 2017.