I made my original debut in Columbia, MO on June 16th, 1974. Indicating a knack for serendipitous timing and a flair for the sentimental that would follow me throughout the years, I was born on Father's Day to a pair of devoted parents from whom I learned the power and importance of laughter, and by whom was blessed with unfettered support and unconditional love.
My penchant for wit, wordplay, musicality, and theatricality were evidenced early. Most young tots my age were learning their ABC's and "Jesus Loves Me"...however by the age of three, I was apparently fascinated with, and was often witnessed performing more 'mature material' such as The Kendalls hit: "Heaven's Just a Sin Away" and Debbie Boone's: "You Light Up My Life." I've been a lifelong fan of the double entendre and power ballad ever since.
TV's "Wonder Woman" and "The Incredible Hulk" captivated my childhood attention and imagination. I became both of them in my world of make-believe, spinning in circles pretending to explode into a fabulous fireball, or hulking-out when I might be mad at my 5-year-old world. They were my only reality on Friday nights--and I was glued to the television whenever they were on--beginning a love affair with the boob tube that exists today.
After the adventures of The Amazon Princess and trials of David Banner, My mom would let me stay up late on Friday evenings after the 10 'o clock news--after my Dad and little brother had gone to bed--to laugh along with "The Queens of Comedy."
Reruns of "I Love Lucy" and "Carol Burnett & Friends" were a means of bonding time with my beloved mom. Since birth, she and I have had a special connection--like many mothers and first-born sons. Yet our attachment runs a little deeper. My first name is my mother's maiden name. I've always felt that I was a perfect blend of my parents' qualities--and the fact that I share their names equally, is a perfect symbol of the impact they've had on my life--from the very beginning.
My mom loved seeing me experience these shows for the first time, as it enabled her to relive her childhood, allowing her love for Lucy to be passed along to me. Those are some of my favorite memories I have with my Mom. "The Candy Factory".. ."Vitameatavegamin"..."Eunice & Mama..."
I didn't know it then, but those Friday Night (De)Lights were a master class in comedy, joy, and family. I was laughing, and I was learning--at the feet of these brilliant teachers from whom I'd absorb lessons in being funny. What a gift to be given. Without a doubt, "Lucy" & "Carol" gave me my start...that I shared those moments with my greatest teacher: the woman who had given me my life, I shall cherish always. I'm forever grateful to each of these women, and Mom:
"I'm so glad we had this time together."