David Bowie passed away yesterday after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 69 years old.
It’s unreal to write those sentences, and it’s enough to bring tears to my eyes, but David Bowie is dead. This is just days after the release of his most recent album, Blackstar.
The rock and roll polymorph was one of the most influential cultural icons of the 20th century, and he’s left behind so many great albums as well as memorable films. There was his excellent first starring role in The Man Who Fell to Earth, his turn as a vampire in The Hunger, his whimsical villainy in Labyrinth, his adorably fun/wonky impersonation of Andy Warhol in Basquiat, his dramatic WWII POW role in Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence, and his appearance in The Prestige as Nikola Tesla. Bowie wouldn’t necessarily disappear into a role since his persona was too big to be contained, but it’s like his on-stage presence was there on screen–he was always so telegenic and fascinating to watch.
I still remember my friend Jim teaching me how to play “Ziggy Stardust” on guitar when I was in high school just as I was slowly getting into Bowie. I felt like a f**king boss.
A person like David Bowie is rare–someone strange and good, a beacon for so many people out there who are strange and don’t realize how good they are. The world is a better place for his presence and all the great work he’s given us.
Flixist sends our condolences to David Bowie’s family and loved ones.
