Bob Saget Began Directing the New Documentary on His Comic Hero Martin Mull in 2018. Both Men Died Before It Was Finished

**New Documentary ‘Who Is Martin Mull?’ Celebrates the Life of Comedian Martin Mull**

A new documentary titled “Who Is Martin Mull?” has been made available for streaming on Netflix, offering a poignant reflection on the life and career of the comedian, actor, and painter. This film comes at a significant moment, as it marks the posthumous release of a project originally helmed by Bob Saget, who passed away in January 2022. Mull himself died in 2024, making the documentary an invaluable chronicle of their legacies.

Production of the film commenced in 2018 when Saget, admiring Mull’s unique comedic style, initiated a documentary project to celebrate one of his all-time favourite comedians. After Saget’s unexpected passing at the age of 65, Neil Berkeley took over direction to bring Saget’s vision to fruition. The film comprises a blend of interviews, personal anecdotes, and archival footage, showcasing Mull’s extensive career in entertainment, including notable works in beloved productions such as *Clue*, *Roseanne*, and *Sabrina the Teenage Witch*.

In the documentary, Saget reflects on his first encounter with Mull, revealing how deeply Mull’s work influenced him. “I was 17, and you were at the main point in Philadelphia,” Saget recalls in the film, highlighting a show he deemed one of the best he had ever attended. This moment marks a turning point in Saget’s life, where he was inspired to pursue comedy, spurred on by Mull’s extraordinary talent.

Through a series of interviews, several prominent comedians, including Steve Martin, contribute their insights on Mull’s impact. Martin, who first met Mull in New York during their early careers, recalls their time together as roommates and touring companions. He acknowledges Mull’s distinctive style, noting, “Martin’s act was completely different from any other comedian,” thereby underscoring Mull’s unique contributions to the comedic landscape of the time.

As the documentary unfolds, it showcases Mull not just as a comedian but as an artist with depth and versatility. Saget, during a heartfelt interview segment, declares, “It’s such a body of work, and you can feel the same soul coming through into all of it.” His genuine admiration for Mull is evident as he expresses gratitude for the talent and insights Mull shared over the years, closing with a simple yet profound “Bless you” from Mull in response.

Reflecting on their friendship and Saget’s death, Mull poignantly contemplates the shifting realities of ageing and loss. He observes that with the passing of friends, one’s grief list grows, a sentiment that resonates deeply within the narrative. The loss of Saget, as he states, was staggering, prompting Mull to reflect on his friendships and mortality with a blend of humour and introspection.

The documentary also highlights the contributions of other notable figures in Mull’s career, including Norman Lear, the legendary producer who created *Fernwood 2 Night*, which catapulted Mull to national prominence. Lear passed away in 2023 at the age of 101, reminding viewers of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of celebrating these legacies while they endure. Fred Willard, Mull’s co-host on the iconic show and a beloved comedic actor, also appears in the film, having passed away in 2020.

Mull’s daughter, Maggie Mull, announced her father’s passing in June 2024, after a “valiant fight against a long illness.” Her heartfelt tribute pays homage to her father’s enduring spirit, noting that “He was never not funny” and highlighting the profound loss felt by those in his life, including family, friends, and admirers across the artistic community. In her tribute, she eloquently noted, “the sign of a truly exceptional person — by many, many dogs,” encapsulating the joy and love he shared with both people and animals alike.

“Who Is Martin Mull?” stands as a tribute not only to the multifaceted nature of Mull’s talent but also as a celebration of friendship, creativity, and the challenges of navigating life’s inevitable losses. This documentary, now available on Netflix, provides an engaging and reflective journey through Mull’s artistic legacy, ensuring that his unique voice continues to resonate with audiences long into the future.