RESEDA — A San Fernando Valley native who made the world laugh was remembered on Wednesday, Aug. 18, on a day devoted to his home turf.
The late stand-up beloved comic was in the spotlight anew, this time as Los Angeles City Councilman Bob Blumenfield, friends and family gathered at Reseda Park, in his native Reseda, to declare Brody Stevens Day.
Stevens rose from his Valley roots to become a renowned entertainer, with a brand of humor that found its way into such movies and TV shows as The Hangover and Chelsea Lately. He became a mentor and friend to many professional comedians, particularly on the L.A. comedy scene.
His rising star crashed tragically in 2019, when at 48 he took his own life after a battle with mental illness.
But it was clear the memory of Stevens’ talent, and his humanity, would not be soon forgotten as his mother Jacklyn and sister Stephanie joined Blumenfield, friends and other comedians to gather at a bench in the park known as Brody’s Bench. The bench was procured through Stevens’ friend Tommy Godlove, who helped organized the event, according to Blumenfield’s office.
“Brody loved our community and he made such a positive impact on so many,” said Blumenfield. “It’s truly special to be joined by his family and friends to name ‘818 Day’ after Brody, a proud West Valley native and one of the best comedians of his generation.”
The day fell on Aug. 18 — known as 818 Day– in the Valley, which shares the same area code numbers. The day prompted celebration of Valley cultural landmarks and business.
“We are a year and a half into a very lonely time so Brody’s message of positive energy really resonates right now,” said comedian Jeff Ross. “Levity and laughter are so important so even though Brody is gone, his message, his cadence, makes it easier. It’s amazing that Brody can lift me up, get me out of bed, and bring people together.”