The one year anniversary of the death of actor Gary Coleman is fast approaching, and can you believe that he hasn’t even been buried yet?! Apparently the battles still rages between his widow, Shannon Price, and his parents over his finances, including burial money.
Gary’s manager, Vic Perillo, spoke to online entertainment site: BlackMediaScope about the shameful turn of events and though he didn’t speak on where Gary’s body is being held, he had a lot to say about the industry that aided in his downfall and how one of televisions most beloved child actors can’t even get the least bit of respect, even in death.
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“This was not the proper and dignified manner to show respect for the magnificent talent the world TV and film audience knew in Gary Coleman. This was not the send off he deserved.”“Unfortunately we learn of the great works and noble deeds of a person upon their death and at their memorial. Gary’s deeds and contributions to the entertainment industry and other endeavours were overshadowed by the desire of the media to stay focused on the misfortunes of his life and all the negatives.“Gary’s downfall was not entirely of his own doing. He had help. There exist within the film and television industry those who make up the body of the Peripheral Industry. The new age life coaches to the stars, the managers and consultants, who have categorically destroyed the lives and careers of many performers. Gary Coleman was a victim of the Peripheral Industry, not of his parents.“On this, the first anniversary of his death, I have contacted the three major (U.S. TV) networks, asking them to honour Gary, his eight years on Diff’rent Strokes, his seven movies of the week, his work as a spokesman with the National Kidney foundation and the many charitable endeavors he gave of his time and effort to.“The answer from the networks were, ‘Not interested,’ ‘We don’t have any time’ and ‘We pass…’ To praise his work, talent and his person is of little interest to them. And yet, should his ex-wife, Shannon Price, or (Diff’rent Strokes co-star) Todd Bridges make a statement condemning his parents, they are given Carte Blanch time in the press. Have we lost our theatrical moral conscience?”
This is so sad. It was well known that he had some issues in his adult life with his career and relationships, but this man was recognized everywhere he went. So much so that he was annoyed anytime fans would ask him to say “Whatchu talkin’ ’bout, Willis?” It’s hard to believe they can’t stop fighting about his money for five minutes to put him in the ground. Damn shame.