Good bye, Leo

[Mouseferatu]

According to a story on CNN.com, found at http://www.cnn.com/2005/SHOWBIZ/TV/12/16/spencer.obit.ap/index.html :

"John Spencer, who played Leo McGarry on NBC's 'The West Wing,' died of a heart attack Friday, his publicist said. He was 58."

 

[Crothian]

Wow...that's sudden news. I liked him as an actor and have been really enjoying West Wing lately.

 

[ddvmor]

I've only just gotten into the West Wing - I'm coming to the of Season One - this is sad news indeed.

 

[Alzrius]

The news hit me hard when I heard it. The West Wing is my favorite show, and although it's hard to say which of the incredible ensemble cast would be my favorite character, John Spencer, in his role of Leo, would have been very close to the top. I always looked forward to seeing him every week, and the thought that he's not out there anymore is like losing a relative.

 

[RigaMortus2]

Didn't he have a heart attack on the show as well? Is this an example of life imitating art?

 

[Kahuna Burger]

Didn't he have a heart attack on the show as well? Is this an example of life imitating art?

well, art already imitated life as both the actor and character are recovering alcoholics. So there is balance.

Since the current season is still in production, I'm sure this is a tough time for the writers and cast, losing a part of their team/friend, and having to pragmaticly consider what to do with it in terms of the plot line. I don't envy them.

 

[Alzrius]

Since the current season is still in production, I'm sure this is a tough time for the writers and cast, losing a part of their team/friend, and having to pragmaticly consider what to do with it in terms of the plot line. I don't envy them.

This does have a serious impact on the show's plotline. I think a lot, at this point, depends on how many episodes they completed filming with him before he passed away.

 

[RichCsigs]

It's even harder since they've already established that Leo is alive 3 years later (at the President Bartlett Library dedication).

 

[Kahuna Burger]

It's even harder since they've already established that Leo is alive 3 years later (at the President Bartlett Library dedication).

Damn, was he in that scene? I don't remember him specificly, but he might have been refered to.... Now its even more in flux what I think they'll do....

 

[RichCsigs]

He wasn't there but I thought he was mentioned. I can't find any mention of him in various recaps for that episode around the web though, so maybe I'm wrong.

Either way, it still sucks. I wish they didn't have to think about it at all.