He was warm and totally approachable - nothing like one would expect a celebrity to be. He took us on the ferry and we rode back and forth twice while he told us about his life and his aspirations (he claimed his entire career was an attempt to impress a high school sweetheart), and he even wrestled several of the women. To my disappointment, just as it was my turn to wrestle with Andy, we docked in Manhattan again, and we all shuffled off the ferry. Andy, sensing our reluctance to end the 24-hour party, bought us all ice cream cones before he said goodbye.
It has been years since I have thought about this adventure. It was without a doubt the greatest concert experience I’ve ever had and a life-altering experience. Andy Kaufman was an amazing character and talented artist, but he was more than that to those of us who were his fans. He was a man who respected the guilelessness of an audience, of people, and repaid it with magic. He was someone who knew the party had to end, but at least he could buy you an ice cream cone to make it easier.
Although I'm afraid we did lose Andy Kaufman on that fateful May 16 in 1984 (despite Internet rumors to the contrary), in honor of his spirit, I think I am going to take my son out for some milk and cookies. If my husband is lucky, maybe we’ll fit in a late-night wresting match.
Article comments
1 - Phillip Winn
Wow, this is awesome. What a great story! Thank you.
2 - El Bicho
Congrats, I've seen video of Andy out with the audience enjoying milk and cookies.