Joe Franklin's Couch - The Best Seat In The House
A legend and his cheesecake, October 18, 2013.
A New York original has died. Joe Franklin practically invented the television talk show, keeping his on the air for 43 years. He interviewed everyone whether in the mainstream or on the end of the fringe.
From memorabilia to LP's to pictures, his office is a repository of the entire 20th century. If it happened, Joe knew about it. He was referred to as "The King of Nostalgia". Friends call me the "National Treasure of Fandom." I'd lose a trivia contest to Joe in a heartbeat though he was genuinely surprised I knew some of the answers.
We could drink a toast to him, but you can't find a bottle of Hoffman Ginger Ale when you need one.
Like my dad, Joe made friends of everyone he met. Joe made you feel right at home in his presence. I am happy to be included among those friends.
Godspeed, Joe.