Farewell to much-loved stars

MORENO. Mourned by many of the starlets he helped develop into stars.

JANUARY 2016 has turned out to be a month for leavetaking, as well-loved show biz icons have been bidding farewell to their grieving loved ones and fans.

On the local entertainment scene, Master Showman German Moreno of “Walang Tulugan” fame finally closed his eyes at 82, mourned by many of the starlets he helped develop into stars.

We knew Kuya Germs well because for some years, our TV shows, “That’s Entertainment” and “Two For The Road,” shared the same studio at GMA 7, so we would spend hours together in one big dressing room for male on-cam talents. In addition, every time I would attend a social or family function at the Sampaguita Pictures compound, Germs would be present—since he was part of the extended Vera-Perez family, along with Gloria Romero and Susan Roces.

Provocative question

At German’s wake at Mt. Carmel Church last week, we particularly appreciated the night that began with Mass officiated by Archbishop Socrates Villegas, whose homily began by asking the provocative question: Can an artista be holy?

At first blush, the answer would appear to be no—but Archbishop Villegas insightfully used German’s famous generosity and helpfulness to indicate otherwise. The insight’s validity wasn’t lost on the stars and starlets in attendance, so we hope that at least some of them will initiate their own selfless acts of service in the months to come.

On the global show biz scene, the most-missed departed stars were led by David Bowie, whose music and overall “alien star-child” ethos fascinated and enraptured millions for decades. A self-confessed alcoholic, Bowie had to live a “pure” life just to stay alive, and this surprisingly non-show biz existence added to his mystery and appeal.

Other stellar leavetakers thus far this month include ace character actor Alan Rickman and singer Glenn Frey. They will be sorely missed!