The Loss of Roger Ebert

Roger Ebert, a UHS alumnus and well-respected movie critic, died at age 70 on April 4, 2013. Mr. Ebert was diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer in 2002, which resulted in the removal of his jaw and the loss of both his ability to eat and to speak in 2006.

When I heard of Mr. Ebert’s passing, I could think of no better way to honor such a full life than to write an article for The Echo. What could be more fitting for a man who was once its editor?

When I sat down to write, the words came with ease. In fact, I was overwhelmed by all that I wanted to say. It was a feeling that I had never experienced. I finally understood what many have said about writing: If you have something to say, the words will come.

I grew up attending Ebertfest — an annual film festival in Champaign-Urbana that Mr. Ebert founded — and had the opportunity to write a feature on Mr. Ebert after last year’s festival.

Mr. Dan Perrino, who passed away last summer, was also quoted in the article. As a journalist, I am honored to have had the chance to quote these men. But as a girl who grew up around them, I feel a great loss. They were true masters of their craft, and shared their passion with those around them.

My hope is that Mr. Ebert’s legacy — a man who could so eloquently put his thoughts into words and live with such hope — will remain through Ebertfest, in the way we watch movies, and in the hearts of so many that he touched.

Even without the ability to speak, he used words in a way that is unparalleled. Mr. Ebert inspired me to write, to love movies, to ask many questions, and to enjoy life.

If there is anything to be said for technology, it is how well it preserves. I will cherish that article always.

Mr. Ebert told me it was “a thrill to be written up in the Echo.” Well, it was an honor to have written him up.

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Caitlin Elliott

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