Chapp-Hell Show

"Mmm, mmm, bitch!" - Samuel L. Jackson (as played by Dave Chappelle), Chappelle's Show

You know what really sticks in my craw? Celebrities that don't know a good thing when they have it. The obligatory example is Shelly Long leaving "Cheers," but that moronic decision pales in comparison to what Dave Chappelle did to me.

Chappelle's Show was, without a doubt, the funniest program on television. I say "was" because just before the start of the hit comedy's third season, Dave went AWOL. Chappelle fled to South Africa for a "spiritual retreat" in May, despite filming only half of the new season. The cast, fans, and most of all, the bigwigs at Comedy Central have been asking if Dave will ever return - a question that was recently answered by cast member Charlie Murphy:

" 'Chappelle's Show' is over, man. Done," comic Charlie Murphy told TV Guide. "It took me a long time to be able to say those words, but I can say it pretty easy now, because it's the truth."

It took a while for me to post about this, primarily because I was still clinging to the hope that my favorite show would return. I am the proud owner of seasons one and two on DVD, and have been on board since the premiere. I don't understand Dave's decision, but I can't bring myself to hate him for it. I feel bad for the cast and crew - not to mention Comedy Central - but I also (selfishly) feel bad for myself. I hate to see such a terrific program end on such a sour note. I'll miss Chappelle's Show terribly.