As of today, July 11, 2012, Philippine showbusiness' Comedy King Dolphy passed away. He was 83.
He made people laugh for more than six decades. Starting out on stage vaudevilles during the Japanese occupation era as Golay, he found fame and fortune making people laugh. After the war, he made a name as a comic relief to some of the biggest stars in the 1950's, until he was launched alongside Lolita Rodriguez in the movie adaptation of Mars Ravelo's "Jack en Jill".
When television started out in the '60s and was slowly making a name for a burgeoning industry, he was one of the pioneer talents of the pre-martial law ABS-CBN. His tandem with Panchito in "Buhay Artista" drew lots of laughter, especially with their song translation gags. Soon after, he started branching out as a producer, makinghis own movies that converted into hits.
During Martial Law, he became the unofficial padre-de-familia of Philippine Television when he headlined "John en Marsha" with versatile actress Nida Blanca. The phenomenal sitcom zoomed high in the ratings, and lasted 17 years on air.
His career was colorful, so was his lovelife. His various affairs with women resulted in having 18 children, but he proved to be a good provider. Soon after we got to see some of his children making a name for themselves, on the television and movies.
Despite all the success that he had, he remained humble. His status as top comedian became legendary when he gave a break to some aspiring stars. His generosity to some small workers in the industry is also a testament to how big his heart is.
His showbiz career withstood the tests of time. A true survivor even in real life when he dealt with internal family issues, death among his showbiz friends and contemporaries, and even dealing with his own health issues too.
Who would ever forget his successful showbiz comeback in the '90s via the sitcom "Home Along da Riles" when almost everybody considered him a has-been? Who would ever forget his comedies that dealt with various takes on Hollywood and in the Philippine society?
His jokes made us laugh. His personality will never be imitated or equaled. His legacy as a comedian will never be forgotten.
John Puruntong, Kevin Cosme, Facifica Falayfay...
Mang Dolphy... salamat sa sayang binigay niyo! Time to laugh with God as main audience.
