The Passage of Two Icons

Yesterday, we lost two icons of my youth. Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson. Like many legends, Farrah and Michael left our world far too early. Their legacy continues through the work they have left behind.

Farrah Fawcett-Majors. The name engenders memories of an original Charlie's Angel. "Angels, I have an assignment." I can hear the theme song in my head and picture Farrah, gun drawn, in a police uniform, in the opening credits. In Anthony Wayne Junior High, the hairstyle goal of just about every female student (and perhaps some males!) was Farrah's layered cut. She only starred as Jill Munroe for one year but this role catapulted her to international fame. The infamous poster of Farrah in a red swimsuit was featured in Saturday Night Fever. She went on to earn several Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for more profound projects including Burning Bed and Extremities, both on Broadway and in film. But, to me, the actress's life-changing role was as herself in Farrah's Story, the two-hour documentary detailing her battle with cancer. She showed us dignity, bravery, and a sense of humor as well as a piece of her life. Farrah will always be remembered.

Michael Jackson. King of Pop. In his fifty years, Michael has changed the face of music, dance, and truly entertained us. Eccentricities and legal issues nonwithstanding, Michael was a true music icon. From his days in The Jackson Five to The Wiz, The Wall, Thriller and later work, we are bequeathed with his soundtrack. During his illustrious career, Michael gave us first "feature" music video, Thriller. Who can forget the artistic video for Black and White, featuring a host of actors morphing into each other. Or the West Side Story-inspired Bad . Michael in his single white glove, doing the Moonwalk, a move he created. We all wore white socks with black patent loafers because of Michael who certainly had a unique style. In fact, I think I will break out the white socks and black shoes when I get home! Recently, I heard a radio report about Michael's planned tour in the U.K. Kenny Ortega of High School Musical was apparently choreographing a new dance move for Michael which would transform dance as we know it. Sadly, we will never have the opportunity to see Michael do this move. But, even without this new move, Michael has changed dance for eternity.

Rest in Peace.