Phil Hartman was a beloved "SNL" cast member with a unique success story. After being discovered as an audience member at an improv show in 1975, he joined the Groundlings comedy troupe and became a career performer. Hartman starred on "SNL" between 1986 and 1994 and was known for his gut-busting portrayals of Bill Clinton, Barbara Bush, an unfrozen caveman lawyer, and more. After leaving the show, he scored major roles in "NewsRadio" and "The Simpsons." Hartman was thriving professionally when his personal life took a sudden, tragic turn.
In 1987, Hartman married his third wife, model Brynn Omdahl. The pair had two children and seemed to be living the dream. However, behind closed doors, Omdahl struggled with substance misuse and depression. By the mid-'90s, their marriage was on the rocks. On May 28, 1998, Hartman and Omdahl got into a heated argument at their home. After Hartman went to bed, Omdahl retrieved a gun and shot the actor to death while he slept. A few hours later, Omdahl fatally shot herself, bringing an end to a horrific night of violence.
Hartman's death sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, but his legacy lives on. "Phil Hartman was perhaps the best cast member, ever, of 'Saturday Night Live,'" recalled "SNL" writer Jack Handey in an article he wrote for Slate. "I loved writing for him." In 2014, Hartman posthumously received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic abuse, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233. You can also find more information, resources, and support at their website.
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