Officials from Paul Mooney’s hometown of Oakland, California are thinking of ways to honor the comedy legend in the wake of his passing. As TMZ reported, the Oakland City Council — who was contemplating tributes for the star long before he passed away — will discuss ideas for a tribute during their next meeting.
According to a few council members, an annual or regularly scheduled comedy event highlighting the best up-and-coming comedians in Oakland is in the running for possible ways to pay homage to the comedy giant. Officials are also considering the creation of a college scholarship in his name or the possible display of a plaque with Mooney’s picture in the Black Arts District.
Officials are also interested in hearing what Oakland residents can come up with. All ideas will be laid out during the city council meeting on June 1.
As REVOLT previously reported, Mooney, the comedian best known for his work alongside Dave Chappelle on the “Chappelle’s Show,” suffered a heart attack on Wednesday (May 19) in his Oakland home. Emergency responders “valiantly tried to save him,” but they were unable to. He passed away at the age of 79.
The news of Mooney’s death has been met with loving messages from fans who have praised his comedy genius and have revisited old videos of his stand-up acts. Many also applauded his accolades, which include writing material for the late Richard Pryor.
Amid the plethora of condolences sent to Mooney’s family, Chappelle shared a few words about his late friend.
“The best that ever did it passed away,” he said. “His legacy will live forever. He did everything from ‘The Richard Pryor Show’ to the ‘Chappelle’s Show.’ He was one of the first Black people ever in the Writer’s Guild [of America]. Paul Mooney will be sorely missed and wildly remembered. I’ll see to that.”