Leslie Jordan died yesterday, and the news hit me hard. I didn’t know the man, but I was fully aware of the countless hours of laughter, promise, insight, storytelling, and zest for life that he’d shared with me and his tens of millions of other fans.

Today I’m looking back—with thanks—at some of those moments, and I’d like to share a couple of them with you.

This one brings warmth and smiles.

These clips will always make me laugh.

This Instagram post makes me reflect.

Yesterday, his agent wrote,
The world is definitely a much darker place today without the love and light of Leslie Jordan. Not only was he a mega talent and joy to work with, but he provided an emotional sanctuary to the nation at one of its most difficult times. What he lacked in height he made up for in generosity and greatness as a son, brother, artist, comedian, partner, and human being. Knowing that he has left the world at the height of both his professional and personal life is the only solace one can have today.