Carl Hubbert

Hubbert, Carl "Cork" easily recognized from his work in movies, television, commercials and comedy clubs in Los Angeles, has died. This unique spirit passed away peacefully on September 28th at his apartment in Venice, CA. Born in Pendleton, Oregon on July 3rd, 1952, he contracted severe chronic arthritis at age 9 and spent two years confined to a wheel chair, during which time he became a voracious reader. After performing in Portland Park Bureau productions, he continued while at John Marshall High. At Portland State he teamed with friends to perform stand up comedy and plays at local venues while editing "The Conspiracy Digest". One semester from graduating, he hitch hiked to Los Angeles and began doing stand up comedy at The Improv, The Comedy Store and The Troubadour; and improv with "The L.A. Connection". Cork had his first major film role in "Under The Rainbow". Several movies followed, including "Legend" and his proudest "The Ballad of The Sad Cafe", or as he jokingly called it "The Salad in The Bad Cafe". Hubbert appeared in numerous television shows; "ER", "Magnum p.i.", "Charmed", as a regular on "The Charmings"; and in numerous commercials. Politics were a central theme in his personal life as he attended countless demonstrations, especially those for social justice. Being arrested for protesting U.S. policy in Nicaragua was a badge of honor for Cork. During his last few years, Cork continued to perform and teach improv at The Comedy Underground in Santa Monica. He will appear in an episode of "Knee High, P.I." to be aired in October; a fitting climax for an unforgettable character with a twinkle in his eyes, laughter in his soul, originality in his mind and generosity in his heart. He lived life fully on his own terms, erring on the side of pleasure whenever possible. "My feeling about life is that you have to steer in the direction of the curve." Cork is survived by his mother, Mrs. Lily Early and sister, Pam Peterson in Oregon. Private services will be held there. A memorial celebration of Cork's life will be held Sunday, October 26th, from 1 to 5pm, at 1209 Preston Way in Venice, CA. Please call 310-390-9709 for details.