Farewell, Eli Wallach
This hopeless romantic was very sad to learn of the death of actor Eli Wallach this morning. At 98, Mr. Wallach left this world, leaving behind a host of films for us all to enjoy.
One of my favorite romantic comedies of all-time is “The Holiday,” and this scene is one of my favorites. He played the part of Arthur Abbott, a retired screen writer, in the film. Kate Winslet, visiting Los Angeles on her holiday, befriends him, and the friendship that ensues is the best relationship of the film.
Eli was married to the same woman, actress Anne Jackson, for 66 years. In this clip, she toasts him for his lifetime achievement in 2010.
Additionally, in honor of his memory, here’s one of my favorite scenes from “The Holiday” that depicts the friendship between Arthur (Wallach) and Iris (Winslet).
For more about Mr. Wallach’s biography, click here for an article from the Hollywood Reporter.
8 Comments
Anonymous
Bravo to Eli Wallach and Nancy Meyers (screenwriter & director of THE HOLIDAY) for that wonderful scene and film! He’s an inspiration to all of us seniors everywhere…APPLAUSE! APPLAUSE! Mom
Steph's Scribe/Stephanie Verni
Awww. So endearing. We’ll have to watch it soon in his honor. 🙂
monkifoss
What?! That’s so sad, not many old Hollywood actors left.
Steph's Scribe/Stephanie Verni
What a faithful, true guy. Loved him. 🙁
djmatticus
What an actor. What a character. What a great example of how to remain human in that industry. He will be missed. I might have to do a movie marathon this weekend in his honor.
Steph's Scribe/Stephanie Verni
That is a great idea. He was the best.
Jack Flacco
I still find it amazing to know he had lived a full life way into his nineties. In interviews, he still spoke as a kid at heart with goals and dreams to fulfill. I suppose that’s the secret to longevity–having hope, knowing there’s a lot more to get done!
Anonymous
I agree. I envied his childish enthusiasm for all he did. He obviously loved his profession and loved learning.