In Memory of Ryan Dunn

Ryan Dunn is my favorite member of Jackass. That's not just a line, either: that's the honest to God's truth. I'm having trouble just figuring out what I can write about this man that would do him any justice, so bear with me if this article seems a bit rambly.

Ryan never tried to be funny, he simply was funny. His laugh was downright infectious and even that thick beard of his couldn't hide that bright and cheery smile. Of course, I don't know Ryan Dunn personally, but for the first time in my life I was actually brought to tears upon hearing about the death of a celebrity. I'm man enough to admit that. I've read the beautiful memories the Jackass cast and crew have been writing, I've listened to the interviews with the Margera family, and watched the most heartbreaking interview with Bam Margera I've ever witnessed, and each time my eyes water. Shit, I'm fighting back tears right now while I'm typing this.

Ryan, however you knew him, was such a phenomenally kind human being. He was a fierce and loyal friend to those he cared about, madly in love with his wonderful girlfriend, Angie, and an all around amazing guy to have in this world. I only knew him as an entertainer, but through a series like Jackass, you really feel like you get to know these guys. They aren't playing parts or putting up fronts: they are who they are. I'm deeply saddened by the death of Ryan Dunn in all sorts of ways. In a way, I felt like I knew him, having watched him grow into a man basically over the last 12 years. Over half of my life I spent watching Ryan, between the old cKy videos and Jackass. Even though I never actually knew or met him, I still feel a huge loss, and I'm just some random schmuck. I can't even imagine what his friends and family are going through at this time.

One thing that really shook me to the core was that I always imagined that Ryan and Bam's friendship mirrored my own friendship with Daniel King. I was the Bam to his Ryan, or vice versa. You can really feel the love between those two guys every time they share a screen together. I would be completely devastated to lose Daniel. I'd probably cease to function entirely. So I really mean it when I say that my thoughts and prayers are going out to those hurting right now in the wake of this tragedy (and before any of you internet trolls flame me for idolizing a "drunk driver," we know he made a bad decision, we know you shouldn't drink and drive, but that doesn't change the fact that people are hurting right now, so have some respect and keep that kind of diatribe out of here).

So here's to you, "Random Hero." You've made us laugh, made some of us cry, but overall it was just an absolute joy getting to watch and, in some weird way, know you over the past decade. Rest in peace, Dunn.

Also, I'd like to offer my condolences to the friends and family of Zach Hartwell, who also passed away in the accident. I don't know much about him, but from what I've read, he's a pretty stand-up guy. Rest in peace, Zach.