JohnnyDepp-Zone.com

The literary world lost one of its liveliest writers, and Johnny Depp lost a dear friend, when Dr. Hunter S. Thompson died Sunday night, February 20th, at his compound in Woody Creek, Colorado, just outside of Aspen. The cause of death was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Hunter created “gonzo journalism,” in which the author included himself in the story he was covering, and wrote many books, including the classic FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS. Terry Gilliam’s film of FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS was released in 1998, with Johnny Depp playing Hunter under the alias “Raoul Duke.” Johnny spent months living with Hunter preparing for the role, and their friendship continued after the film ended. The photo at the left shows Johnny reading letters he exchanged with Hunter. To see a picture of Johnny and Hunter together in happier days, click HERE.

The Zone extends its sympathies to the family of Hunter Thompson, to Johnny and everyone involved with the filming of FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS, and to Hunter’s many friends and fans around the world. He was a particular favorite of the Zone’s book club, and the members of ONBC grieve his loss. Depp fans everywhere salute Hunter’s memory, celebrate his life and tremendous body of work, and wish he had stayed with us longer. Hunter often ended his columns with the phrase, “So long and Mahalo,” which is the Hawaiian word for “thank you.” So long and Mahalo, Hunter. Mahalo nui loa. We miss you already, very much.