January 14, 2002
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien issued this statement on the news that Canadian
comedy legend Frank Shuster had passed away:
"Like all Canadians, I was very saddened to learn that this
unforgettable voice of Canadian humour has been silenced.
It is rare that an individual’s accomplishments make them a legend in
their own time. Frank Shuster was one of those rare cases. With his unerring
instinct for tickling the Canadian funny bone, he became a familiar and
welcome presence to Canadians, who had the pleasure of hearing him on radio
and seeing him in action on the Wayne & Shuster Show on television.
For generations, in war and in peace, Frank Shuster and his partner
Johnny Wayne defined the best in Canadian comedy, setting a benchmark for
excellence which earned them an international following and inspired the
many extraordinary talents that have followed in their footsteps.
Aline joins me in extending our sincerest condolences to his family and
many, many friends. While Frank Shuster will be sorely missed, he will live
on forever in our memories and in the precious legacy of laughter that he
has left us."
-30-
PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555