Mongo Was Just a Pawn In The Game of Life

I was saddened to hear of the death of Alex Karras today in Los Angeles at the age of 77. He came to prominence as a great defensive lineman for the Detroit Lions from 1958-1970.

But he gained wider fame from moving over to the movies and TV, and became best known for the TV sitcom "Webster" and a short stint in the booth doing "Monday Night Football."

For me, Alex Karras will forever be "Mongo" from one of my favorite all-time films, "Blazing Saddles." And in memory of the great Mr. Karras, I present this YouTube clip where Mongo first makes his presence known to the citizens of Rock Ridge: Thanks for the laughs, Mr. Karras, and godspeed.