On this day March 18 1988 comedian and actress Gilda Radner made her final television appearance on The Garry Shandling Show. Just over a year later on May 20 1989 she passed away at age 42 from ovarian cancer.
Radner was one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live where she became a household name with iconic characters like Roseanne Roseannadanna and Baba Wawa. Her sharp wit and fearless comedic style made her a trailblazer for women in comedy.
80s insight: Gilda Radner’s battle with cancer led to the creation of Gilda’s Club a nonprofit organization that provides support for people living with cancer and their families.