In every generation, there comes along a character that, for one reason or another, rings truer than any other. For me that character was Richard “Boner” Stabone. Before I proceed with my final thoughts, I must first fill in some of my background to convey just how personal this loss felt.
As a teen, Lil’ Fang dabbled a bit in the show biz. Between the ages of 11 and 15, I booked several jobs on my native Long Island - first in print, as the adolescent Eastern region rep for Zubaz, then transitioning into a lucrative Kids R’ Us modeling career. As my endeavors progressed, I found that it was time to take a step closer to my dreams. So I began auditioning for film and TV.
I booked several things including a commercial spot for Sheepshead Bay’s own Randazzo’s Clam Bar and “Pizza Eater Number 4” in the pilot episode of Who’s the Boss. I was making the big time. I knew I had the goods when Tony Danza himself told my agent, “That kid’s sitting in my chair.” I thought with any luck – I soon would be, Tony. Then I met Andrew Koenig.
You see, Andrew and I were both up for Boner. I don’t like to talk much about it because it marks the greatest failure of my life. After my agent got me an audition, I spent weeks prepping. When the sides came in the mail, I slept, drank, and ate Boner. I didn’t know what method acting was at the time but, looking back now, I see that I allowed this role to take over my life.
When it came time to board the plane to L.A. I felt this part was mine to lose.
After an arduous audition and several call-backs, it came down to me and Andrew. Because the casting agents were so torn, they suggested that we audition in the same room, back to back. I went first. I nailed it. I was already getting excited at the prospect of lapping up Kirk Cameron’s leftover beaver. Then it was Andrew’s turn. After a minute or so into the audition, I felt jealousy turn to awe. This part was tailor made for me, and I watched this kid come in and play Boner like a Stradivarius. I went white and they went with Andrew. I discovered later that this had been Andrew’s first call back. It was my 6th. I never acted again.
After an arduous audition and several call-backs, it came down to me and Andrew. Because the casting agents were so torn, they suggested that we audition in the same room, back to back. I went first. I nailed it. I was already getting excited at the prospect of lapping up Kirk Cameron’s leftover beaver. Then it was Andrew’s turn. After a minute or so into the audition, I felt jealousy turn to awe. This part was tailor made for me, and I watched this kid come in and play Boner like a Stradivarius. I went white and they went with Andrew. I discovered later that this had been Andrew’s first call back. It was my 6th. I never acted again.
Many actors have suffered from playing a part too well and simply setting the bar to unattainable heights. The result? A cross to bear for the duration of one’s career. I believe that to be Andrew’s curse. He simply was too good at Boner.
In this time of grief, I laud Andrew’s theatrical turn as Richard ‘Boner’ Stabone to be an achievement that far surpasses any in recent memory. Forgive me for personalizing Andrew’s passing for, with Andrew, died Boner and a part of the Fang’s youth with him. Rest in peace, sweet Boner.
