In the 1980's there were two television shows (non sports programs) I could watch with my father. The first was Bugs Bunny/Looney Tunes and the other was The Cosby Show.
Please understand, my Dad and I have always had a great relationship, but he was not exactly a "talker" so I relied on these programs to be conversation starters. Bugs Bunny can only go so far. On the other hand, Cosby was funny, and often the relationship between he and his on screen son "Theo" mirrored my Dad and I.
In 2011, I plunked down my $50.00 and went to see Bill Cosby perform in Reno, NV. He was older, and not very interested in how he looked. He was unshaven, wearing just sweat pants and a hoody, but Cosby delivered is act and he was still VERY funny. During the performance I thought about my Dad, and was sorry he was not sitting with me that night. The connection between Cosby and the laughs my "Old Man" and I shared is very real.
Fast forward to 2014/2015. Bill Cosby has been accused of some really terrible things. Too many accusations to ignore and I find myself looking at him in a new light. While I believe everyone in court should be innocent until proven guilty, the court of public opinion does not hold anything positive today for Mr. Cosby. Perception IS reality. Sadly, the perception of Bill Cosby now is very disturbing and I fear I'll never laugh at his unique comedy the same way.
Sorry, Dad. Guess it's back to Looney Tunes for us.
