Eric Gilliland: A Comedy Writing Legend Remembered
The comedy writing world is mourning the loss of Eric Gilliland, a veteran writer and producer who passed away on September 1 after a battle with cancer. Gilliland was best known for his work on the hit ABC comedy Roseanne, where he wrote and produced from 1992 to 1996. He also consulted on the spin-off series The Conners in 2019.
A Career Spanning Decades
Gilliland’s career in comedy writing spanned decades, with his first big writing gig on the popular sitcom Who’s the Boss? He went on to write for several other notable shows, including Living Dolls, The Wonder Years, Boogie Howser, M.D., That ’70s Show, and My Boys. His most recent project was the podcast The Cinnamon Bear: A Holiday Adventure.
Awards and Nominations
Throughout his career, Gilliland received numerous awards and nominations for his work. In 1994, he received a WGA Award nomination for his writing on Roseanne. In 2019, he received a Daytime Emmy nomination for writing the children’s show The Was Was? Show.
Tributes Pour In
Tributes to Gilliland have poured in on social media, with colleagues and friends remembering his wit, humor, and kindness. Modern Family co-creator Steve Levitan wrote a heartfelt tribute, remembering Gilliland’s love of puns and his ability to be both biting and sweet at the same time. Roseanne writer Stan Zimmerman shared a story about Gilliland’s mischievous sense of humor and his ability to bring joy to those around him.
A Whistling Talent
Away from TV, Gilliland was known for his whistling talent, which was featured on Sam Winch’s The Lullabadeer and on the soundtrack for an episode of Penn & Teller: Bullshit!.
The Story of Eric and the Potato Bar
Roseanne vet Matt Berry shared a hilarious story about Gilliland’s time on the show, known as “The Story of Eric and the Potato Bar.” The story tells the tale of a night when the writing staff decided to order food from a expensive Italian restaurant instead of eating the catered potato bar. The story showcases Gilliland’s sense of humor and his ability to bring joy to those around him.
MORE ABOUT HIM
Eric Gilliland’s Legacy
– Eric Gilliland’s legacy in the comedy writing world is undeniable.
– His work on Roseanne and other notable shows has left a lasting impact on the industry.
– He inspired a generation of writers with his ability to craft relatable characters and hilarious storylines.
Personal Qualities
– Gilliland was known for his kind and generous personality.
– He was always willing to lend a helping hand to his colleagues and friends.
– He was a mentor to many young writers and took great joy in seeing them succeed.
Talents
– Gilliland was a talented whistler, featured on Sam Winch’s The Lullabadeer and on the soundtrack for an episode of Penn & Teller: Bullshit!.
Impact of His Passing
– Gilliland’s passing has left a void in the comedy writing community.
– His legacy will live on through his work on Roseanne and other shows.
– His contributions will continue to be enjoyed by audiences for years to come.
Remembering Eric Gilliland
– The comedy writing world mourns the loss of Eric Gilliland.
– He will be remembered for his wit, humor, and kindness.
– His legacy will continue to inspire and delight audiences for generations to come.
Conclusion
Eric Gilliland will be remembered as a comedy writing legend, known for his wit, humor, and kindness. His work on Roseanne and other notable shows will continue to be enjoyed by audiences for years to come. His legacy will live on through the countless stories and memories shared by his colleagues and friends.
