Muhammad Ali’s memorial service had the attention of the world on Friday, with President Bill Clinton leading a group of speakers and religious leaders. But the one that stands out today is Billy Crystal, giving a very personal and very touching speech on his friendship with the champion. It was perfect because — much like John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman — it was full of jokes and celebration for a memorable life.
Where we’ve gotten memories and grand swathes about “the legend” of Muhammad Ali, Crystal gives a personal take that stands out while also still hitting all of those notes we know from the headlines. Crystal’s opening statement noting that the “world stopped and sighed” when Ali died carries that sentiment that we all can relate to. Death is inevitable, but the moments we take to remember those who passed helps to get through that. When Crystal talks and jokes about his “big brother,” he’s doing a service to those in grief.
Not to mention it’s actually pretty funny, something I don’t think a lot of people were expecting when they heard Billy Crystal would be speaking. There was a bit of snark spreading around when the announcement was made, but he put a cap on that once he started to speak. It’s well worth the longer clip and well worth to look back.
(Via ESPN)