As part of our Late Greats tribute package, EW asked the friends and colleagues to share their memories of the stars we lost in 2009.
Patrick Swayze
Aug. 18, 1952 – Sept. 14, 2009
By C. Thomas Howell
Most of the people who were close to Patrick called him “Buddy.” He was maybe 30 when we did The Outsiders. And Buddy played the older brother, but he really was the older brother.
He was always setting the example of what we should be doing. He always had a guitar slung over his shoulder. The one thing that was great about him was also the most irritating fact about him: He was always somehow better than you, no matter what it was you were doing. It didn’t matter if you were on horseback, shooting weapons, roller- skating, or reciting Shakespeare. He was a tough f—er and a free spirit. (Swayze died of pancreatic cancer in L.A.)
Photo Credit: Everett Collection
Keep reading for This is It guitarist Orianthi’s tribute to Michael Jackson, after the jump.
Michael Jackson
Aug. 29, 1958 — June 25, 2009
By Orianthi
He was the greatest entertainer that ever lived. He was such a perfectionist, but so kind with it. He wanted those of us who were working with him on the This Is It concerts to all have our moments and to not be nervous, and just project our energy, because that’s what he did. Just seeing him dance in front of me for the first time was incredible. I think it was “Human Nature.” I was only six feet away from him and he started dancing. I got home and I was still so excited, I told my sister. Working with him was a dream come true. He was so personable. He would chat with each and every one of us. If he wanted anything changed, he would say, “I’m saying this with love.” It felt like a family. (Jackson died of cardiac arrest in L.A. Orianthi is a guitarist who worked on the This Is It tour.)
Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur
For more Late Greats tributes — including Matthew Broderick on John Hughes, Keith Carradine on David Carradine, and Kenny Ortega on Michael Jackson — pick up the new issue of Entertainment Weekly, on stands Nov. 27.
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What great tributes to them both. I always loved The Outsiders so it’s great to hear C. Thomas Howell’s memories of Patrick. After seeing This is It Orianthi’s words are spot on. He was incredibly nurturing to everyone that he was working with and made me really remember and miss the incredible performer we lost.
Surprising to see that EW would allow a positive portrayal of Michael considering that they are one of the media outlets that crucified him.
so heartfelt…these are touching. thanks
This is a great tribute to Patrick, but his name is spelled wrong in two different places. It’s Swayze, not Swazye.