The Joke's Over: Ralph Steadman on Hunter S. Thompson
Illustrator Ralph Steadman talks about his longtime friendship with the late Hunter S. Thompson and the drawings that accompanied many of Thompson's books and magazine articles. During this event, Mr. Steadman discusses the creation of gonzo journalism, shares stories about his time together with Hunter S. Thompson, and shows a large selection of his drawings. He also talks about Hunter S. Thompson's funeral. This program contains language and images that some viewers may find offensive.
Ralph Steadman first started working with Hunter S. Thompson in 1970, when he and Thompson covered the Kentucky Derby together. He is, most famously, the illustrator for Thompson's "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas." Mr. Steadman has also illustrated a 50th anniversary edition of George Orwell's "Animal Farm" and Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland." His own books include "I-Leonardo" and "The Grapes of Ralph." For more on Mr. Steadman and his work, visit www.ralphsteadman.com.
Bio
Ralph Steadman
Ralph Steadman first started working with Hunter S. Thompson in 1970, when he and Thompson covered the Kentucky Derby together. He is, most famously, the illustrator for Thompson's "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas." Mr. Steadman has also illustrated a 50th anniversary edition of George Orwell's "Animal Farm" and Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland." His own books include "I·Leonardo" and "The Grapes of Ralph." For more on Mr. Steadman and his work, visit www.ralphsteadman.com.
It was entertaining to see that journalist trying to ask his straight questions. He didn't really know how to respond to Ralph's outbursts and apparent loss of concentration. But notice, he did listen to every question and answered each one quite well.
While watching this, it occurred to me that one of Hunter's greatest achievements was legitimizing strangeness.