Southern California Comedy Guide
Tributes to the Greats


Comedy did not appear out of nowhere.

There were greats that came and changed the landscape forever.

This page was created to pay tribute to these greats and to pay tribute to their contributions to our industry.

If you would like to learn more about them, we welcome you to read the page below.

Remember the Comedians for they leave more behind than laughter

Southern California Comedy Guide
A Tribute To

Phillip Edward Hartmann
Better Known As: Phil Hartman
(September 24, 1948 – May 28, 1998) 



The Southern California Comedy Guide proudly pays tribute to one of the timeless icons of the comedy world that was taken from us far too early. Though born in Canada, Phil rose to fame through the Groundlings right here in LA. His work with Paul Reubens helped lead to the rise of Pee-wee Herman. He not only helped develop the whole late-night project but also co-wrote the script for Pee-wee's Big Adventure and was seen in many of the incarnations. 


Phil joined the cast of Saturday Night Live in 1986 and struck comedy gold by playing Bill Clinton and creating many audience-favorite characters. He was recognized by receiving an Emmy Award.


He was almost universally liked, which is not a common thing for a comedian. He was someone who almost everyone considere to be a great guy.


We don't want to dwell on the tragic nature of his death other than to say that he was likely killed for trying to keep his wife from returning to drug use. With so many comedians losing their lives to drugs it's an irony not lost on many.


He was loved...he is loved...he will be missed...his comedy will live on...