WEST WING

WEST WING

 

Election Day II

 

Leo dies and Santos wins. It was election day on "The West Wing" last night. But all the attention wasn’t on which candidate wins.

Leo McGarry died in the episode. He was running for vice president and had collapsed the week before.

The actor who played McGarry, John Spencer, died of a heart attack in December. Producers had said they’d work his death into the show. Also on last night’s "West Wing," Congressman Santos, played by Jimmy Smitts, wins a narrow presidential victory over Alan Alda’s Senator Vinick.

 

MY TWO CENTS

 

Never in a million years did I think it was going to be so hard to watch that episode.

 

Elation over the election of Santos, and despair over the death of Leo. I have to say, it probably wasn’t very hard for the actors to work up tears for this one.

 

That scene with Josh and Donna in the hotel room was something else, especially when they showed Leo’s glasses and watch.

 

Margaret’s face…no words

 

Allison Janney’s face when she tells Jed, and their hug. I thought that was just right. Jed wasn’t going to wail in pain, but the hug was uncharacteristic enough that you could see he was profoundly moved.

 

I loved Josh filling in the map and the final electoral count.

 

I find myself indebted to Aaron Sorkin for creating such a lovable and realistic character in Leo McGarry. I mourn Leo.

 

Brilliantly done.

 

I cant even imagine how the cast did it….they were exceptional. In conclusion, an episode to be remembered for an actor of such deep and sincere respect: John Spencer.

 

THANKS BOSS!!

 

"Una omnis manet nox"…..The same night waits for us all

 

Next week is going to be unbearable…….

 

 

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FAVORITE LEO QUOTES:

 Leo McGarry: [on the phone with the New York Times] 17 across. Yes, 17 across is wrong… You’re spelling his name wrong…

What’s my name? My name doesn’t matter. I am just an ordinary citizen who relies on the Times crossword for stimulation.

And I’m telling you that I met the man twice. And I recommended a pre-emptive missile strike against his air force, so I think I know how…

C.J. Cregg: Leo.

Leo McGarry: They hang up on me every time.

 

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Next Episode:

REQUIEM

Sun, Apr 16

Former series regulars, including Marlee Matlin, Mary-Louise Parker, Tim Matheson, Anna Deavere Smith and Gary Cole, make guest appearances as Bartlet, Santos and their staff members attend Leo’s funeral and reminisce about his life and career. Also, Josh cautions Santos about getting involved in the vote for Speaker of the House.