Even a quarter-century since his untimely demise, Phil Hartman’s comedic genius continues to captivate and entertain audiences.

The world was shaken on May 28, 1998, when Hartman fell victim to a fatal shooting by his wife, Brynn Omdahl, who then took her own life shortly after, leaving behind a cloud of disbelief in their Encino, California home.

Renowned for his wit and charm, Hartman, aged 49 at the time of his passing, had reached the pinnacle of his career, having left an indelible mark as a cast member on “Saturday Night Live” and lending his voice to various characters on the iconic show “The Simpsons.”

Close friend and fellow “SNL” alum Jon Lovitz reminisced during a candid chat with Howard Stern earlier this year, recalling Hartman’s universal appeal and camaraderie within the competitive comedy circuit.

Known for his humility, Hartman shied away from personal limelight, preferring to let his work speak volumes about his talent.

His repertoire included a notable eight-season stint on “Saturday Night Live,” where his portrayals of Frank Sinatra and President Bill Clinton became benchmarks in comedic caricature.

Among fans, his portrayals of quirky personas like Troy McClure and Lionel Hutz on “The Simpsons” remain cherished favorites to this day.

In his final on-screen portrayal as the egotistical news anchor Bill McNeal on the NBC sitcom “NewsRadio,” Hartman effortlessly delivered humor with a touch of smugness, showcasing his versatile acting range.

Originally a reserved graphic designer, Hartman’s foray into the limelight began when he caught the eye of the Groundlings improv group, impressing them with his spontaneous wit during an impromptu performance.

While an adept performer on stage, Hartman’s inclination towards solitude was palpable in his private moments.

According to his second wife, Lisa Jarvis, Hartman embodied dual personas – one consumed with creativity and introspection, and the other a charismatic entertainer, each serving as shields to protect his inner self.

Though his marriage to Omdahl had its share of struggles, the couple found solace and joy in raising their children, Sean and Birgen, a fact the now-adult siblings chose not to discuss for this feature.

In one of his last interviews, Hartman expressed gratitude for the blessings in his life and acknowledged the fragility of fortune, reflecting on the unpredictable nature of existence and the ephemeral quality of success in the tumultuous world.