Died on the Same Day (with special guest Anderson Cooper)
Oct 4, 2023
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Anderson Cooper joins Mo Rocca to discuss the phenomenon of public figures who die on the same day, including the overshadowing of Farrah Fawcett's death by Michael Jackson's. They explore inequalities in media coverage, coincidences and peculiar pairings, and the deaths of Woody Guthrie and the original Bozo the Clown. The podcast also touches on obituaries, Hollywood icons, creative legacies, media coverage and invasion of privacy, and a personal story of meeting Michael Jackson and his dance skills.
Notable public figures who share the same death day often face challenges in determining top billing for obituaries.
Prominent individuals who died on the same day are remembered for their significant contributions to their respective fields.
The deaths of Thomas Jefferson and John Adams on the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence highlight their immense influence on American history.
Deep dives
Yule Brinner and Orson Welles
On October 10, 1985, both Yule Brinner, famous for his role as the King in 'The King and I,' and Orson Welles, acclaimed director and star of 'Citizen Kane,' passed away. Yule Brinner was remembered for his commanding stage presence, both on and off stage. Orson Welles, on the other hand, was known for his groundbreaking work in film and his unmistakable voice. While Brinner received top billing in print, both men were honored with side-by-side coverage in recognition of their significant contributions to their respective fields.
Sammy Davis Jr. and Jim Henson
On May 16, 1990, legendary entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. and puppeteer Jim Henson passed away on the same day. Sammy Davis Jr., known for his incredible talent as a singer, actor, and dancer, had been fighting illness for some time. Jim Henson, the creative genius behind the Muppets, died unexpectedly from pneumonia. Both individuals left behind a lasting legacy in their respective areas of entertainment. The passing of these two beloved figures was met with an outpouring of tributes and reflections on their extraordinary contributions to their crafts.
Margaret Thatcher and Annette Funicello
On April 8, 2013, former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and beloved actress-singer Annette Funicello both passed away. Thatcher, known as the 'Iron Lady,' was a prominent political figure who left a lasting impact on British politics. Funicello, famous for her roles in TV shows like 'The Mickey Mouse Club' and 'Beach Blanket Bingo,' captured the hearts of audiences with her talent and charm. While Thatcher received more attention in the media, both women were recognized for their significant contributions and the indelible mark they left on their respective fields.
Woody Guthrie and Bozo the Clown
On October 3, 1967, American folk singer Woody Guthrie and children's entertainer Bozo the Clown passed away. Woody Guthrie's music and lyrics had a profound impact on folk music and social activism. Bozo the Clown, a beloved figure in children's entertainment, spread joy and laughter to generations of kids. While their contributions may have differed in nature, both Guthrie and Bozo left an enduring legacy in their respective realms of music and entertainment, touching the lives of many with their work.
Thomas Jefferson and John Adams
On July 4, 1826, exactly 50 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Founding Fathers Thomas Jefferson and John Adams passed away. This remarkable coincidence of their deaths on such a significant anniversary of American history highlights their profound influence on the nation's founding. Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the Declaration, and John Adams, a key advocate for independence, played vital roles in shaping the United States. The passing of these two great statesmen on this momentous occasion is a reminder of their enduring impact.
When it comes to obituaries, Mo has always been obsessed with the phenomenon of public figures who share the same death day. So he’s asked CNN anchor and 60 Minutes correspondent Anderson Cooper to join the podcast to talk about who gets top billing and why. You’ll hear about the case of one person’s death getting “buried” by the death of somebody else. (#Justice4Farrah) There’s also the eerie coincidence of two Founding Fathers dying on the same exact day -- July 4th, no less. And finally, we’ll look at some of the oddest “death fellows” in recent history. Special appearances by legendary obit writers Kay Powell and John Pope.
