Charles Nelson Reilly: Dead at 76

Along with the invariably queer Paul Lynde of TV fagotry, Charles Nelson Reilly comes to mind as one of the most gayest individuals on TV during the 70s and 80s. Sadly, Reilly passed away this past Friday due to complications from pneumonia, and is survived by his his partner, Patrick Hughes.

Although a blatant generalization of gay men, who can forget Reilly's ultra-nervous and queer character Claymore Gregg on TV's "The Ghost and Mrs. Muir"? Later, when he started appearing in the gameshow circuit, Reilly took to extravagantly queer outfits, including many bright colored suits, hats, and ascots. His quick witted barbs were notorious for double entendres as only a gay man can deliver.

Reilly once recalled being told by a network executive that "they don't let queers on television." Well, due to wonderful contributions from individuals like Charles Nelson Reilly, they did, they do, and they will progressively continue to do so in the future.