Another legendary performer has left us. So many of them are gone too soon this year.:(
Via a post from Kotaku, sad news rocked the wrestling, entertainment, and gaming world today, as the legendary Lou Albano passed away at the age of 76, already suffering from failing health after getting a heart attack back in 2005. Most famously known in the wrestling community as "Captain Lou", Mr. Albano is also a WWE Hall Of Famer, having served as manager to great talents and as a commentator in addition to his wrestling career. He was also known for playing the "dad" of 80's pop star Cyndi Lauper in her videos, as well as making the transition to Hollywood, starring in a number of films and series, including Miami Vice.
Probably his biggest break was playing the iconic video game character Mario from the Super Mario Bros. Super Show! This was the part I remember Lou the most for. He was the first person to play a Live-Action Mario, as well as voice the character in the animated show. I can still remember the intro to the show, and the dance he made as well.
Super Marios Bros. Super Show! Intro
While he was significantly taller and chubbier than our Nintendo Plumber hero in the games, kids loved Lou's performance as well as the strong Italian accent he gave to the character. I fondly remember the days when I'd eagerly wake up on a Saturday morning just to catch this show. While I liked the cartoon and story, the live action segments were the best, with Lou delivering funny skits alongside Luigi (played by Danny Wells) in their place in Brooklyn, often visited by famous celebreties and actors. Those were the good times, and I sorely miss them a lot.
Rest In Peace, Captain Lou, and you'll be forever remembered as the first man to take up that famous plumbing suit we all know and love in gaming history.
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