A Tribute to MATT McGRORY

HORROR AND HILARITY

MATTHEW MCGRORY

1973-2005

I knew that one day I would have to write this, but never did I think it would come so soon. I wish I could say I was numb, but I’m not, I’m in shock. I think we all are. Yesterday (August 9th, 2005) I lost a close friend and business associate, Matt McGrory.

I met Matt nearly 2 years ago while interviewing him for my website, Horror and Hilarity. The interview was useless though because we ended up having so much fun that the tape contained almost no pertinent information. We just talked, while we watched The Simpsons through the static of his non-cable television. Yes, we even chain-smoked, and had too much to drink. And when he couldn’t safely drive me home that night, that first night of him ever knowing me, he sent me home in a stretch limo. That was just the beginning of our friendship.

To say Matt was loyal is an understatement. Yes, he loved to party, he liked tattoos, whiskey, cigarettes, and the ladies; but when it came down to the wire, he was always there. Matt was my nice Irish boy. I remember once when I was having a sad day and I was trying not to cry, he said, “Come on, Irish girls don’t cry, they’re tough!” Every time I think of that to this day it brings a smile to my face. Matt had that old-fashioned kind of stubbornness and constantly defended the honor and reputation of all that he loved, and I never doubted his motives unlike so many others in this business.

As his popularity grew I had the honor and pleasure of working with him for personal appearances, and booking him into shows. He proved not only to be a great friend, but also a trust-worthy and wonderful client. Despite all his needs he was never demanding or high maintenance. He was a joy to work with right to the end.

I’m having a hard time believing this is real, it doesn’t seem possible, and it certainly doesn’t seem right. I can still hear his voice in my head, and his hearty laugh. I keep expecting him to call me and say it was just a joke; he loved to play tricks on me like that. But it is true, and it’s not a joke.

The world has lost one of its greatest actors. Given the chance I believe Matt would have been a star, his ability to act, to really act, not just rely on his uniqueness, was treasured by many. I’m grateful for every second I shared with Matt, and the wonderful people who surrounded him. He was brilliant as Tiny in the Devil’s Rejects, and he may have been born to play Karl in Big Fish.

All I can do now is sit back and know that he made a huge difference in my life, and hopefully the lives of the rest of you. I love you sweet Matty, my nice Irish boy.

Slán agus beannacht leat “Goodbye and blessings be with you.”