Harvey Pekar wasn't a household name, but he did write an excellent graphic novel about his life called American Splendor. Mostly, it was his tirades about life that made it an underground classic. Pekar's comic writing career began slowly because of his friendship with Robert Crumb. This friendship eventually became the collaboration known as American Splendor. Pekar decided that the comic should be autobiographical and became a hit over time. Harvey gained a reputation as a curmudgeon as his fame grew which was helped by his appearances on the Letterman Show in the 80s. However, for those who knew him, a different picture would be painted.
While Harvey Pekar was twice divorced, he found a lasting love with Joyce Brabner. Together, they adopted a daughter named Danielle. They happily lived in Cleveland even as Harvey became increasingly famous. Paul Giamatti, who played Harvey Pekar in the movie version of American Splendor, described the man as compassionate and empathetic with a huge brain and an even bigger soul. And, he was hilarious. There is no one to replace him. Harvey Pekar was an incredibly unique and special person. I agree that there is no one to replace him.
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