An Open Letter to Ben Savage: You’re Still Around Buddy!
Ben,
You’ve had a tough act to follow your whole life. Fred has had his many successes and some might say you have been in his shadow. But when I first saw you in Little Monsters I knew you were destined for greatness. You had the same cute, charming face that your brother did at a young age. And if there was something to be learned from The Wonder Years, it’s that perhaps that cycle could start over with another Savage.
And did it ever. You graced the airwaves as Cory Matthews for 7 years on Boy Meets World. You did a decent job of harnessing that boyish charm Fred had on Wonder Years. You allowed us into teen angst and Disney Shows before there were Disney Shows. But unfortunately Topanga gained 100 lbs and your boyish looks got a little gawky. The last few years of Boy Meets World were disappointing just as the last couple of years of Wonder Years were. It’s tough when you’re 16, have pimples and your nose isn’t cute as a button anymore.
But you persisted. You kept going. You showed up randomly at events. You apparently don’t drink any alcohol so that can’t help you socially. And yet here you are. Your brother is kicking ass with Always Sunny and you appeared on an episode of Chuck in 2008.
Ben, I’m waiting for your breakout role. I’m waiting for a Boy Meets World Disney movie where Topanga is a gym teacher and your strung out best friend is…strung out. There should be tons of drugs and another Savage should appear as Cory’s son. Can we make that happen?
I miss the early days of Boy Meets World and I need it back Ben. Can you make it happen?
Best,
Natty B
Well put.
It’s Always Sunny is a tought act to follow. Ben better get his act together or Kirk Cameron might have to take him under his wing.
I recall Boy Meets World became less interesting when Topanga gained the weight. I wonder if there’s a correlation? She carried it well, at least.
This is AWESOME! I wish more people will write heartfelt letters to former teen stars and publish them on the internet.
I find both Ben and Fred Savage weirdly awkward now. It’s tough to watch.
I completely disagree with all of y’all! Ben Savage is a great actor who seems to enjoy acting. MAybe he just wants more out of life than just acting. Boy Meets World will forever be my all time favorite show, and Cory Matthews was an epic charater from start to finish!