Squirrel Tactics and Character Analysis: Gary Kasner

Introduction

• Focus on a well-loved character from the show, Gary Kasner.
• Voiced by Carl Reiner and Maurice LaMarche.
• Known for his old-school Yiddish manner of speaking.

Background and Character Traits

• Military Background: Served in the US Navy, stationed on USS Trout 2.
  • Although the timeline and location of his service during the Korean War seem inconsistent.
• Relationship with Tilly: Tilly's boyfriend, contrasting Hank's biological grandfather, Cotton.
  • Described as having a big heart (doctors call it enlarged).
• Personality: Considered the anti-Cotton, treats people right, and is enjoyable to be around.

First Appearance

• Appeared in "The Unbearable Blindness of Laying."
• Initial tension with Hank due to dating his mother.
• Hank's concerns about Gary not carrying luggage (due to heart surgery).

Interactions with Hank

• Hank's discomfort with Gary's behavior.
• Hank's friends challenge Hank's view of Gary's humor.
• Gary's speech style delights Bobby.
• Hank's struggle with accepting Gary.

Holiday Celebrations

• Participates in both Christmas and Hanukkah.
• Hank's initial resistance to celebrating Hanukkah.
• Gary's willingness to accommodate and participate in different traditions.

Blindness Episode

• Hank’s blindness after witnessing Gary and Tilly's intimate moment.
• Gary accompanying Hank to visit Cotton.
• Cotton's surprising friendly attitude towards Gary.
• Gary's stand against Cotton's derogatory remarks about Tilly.

Resolving Tensions

• Gary attempts to resolve tensions by taking Hank to a faith healer.
• Gary and Hank's conversation leads to Hank overcoming his blindness.
• Their relationship improves, and Hank acknowledges Gary's positive influence.

Later Appearances

• Peggy's Turtle Song: Brief call with Tilly, Gary's presence in Tilly's life.
• I Don't Want to Wait: Bobby's visit to Arizona, Gary's mentorship and gift-giving.
• The Honeymooners: Mention of Gary and Tilly's breakup due to Tilly's infidelity.

Character Analysis and Conclusion

• Gary Kasner: good-hearted, treated Tilly's family like his own, defended Tilly when needed.
• Despite limited appearances, Gary left a lasting impression as a beloved character.
• His character was handled poorly in the end; he deserved a better storyline.
• Known for being a standup guy who embraced and respected different cultures and traditions.

Closing Remarks

• Gary's character was loved for his kindness and integrity.
• Deserved more screen time and a better resolution to his story.
• Remembered fondly as one of the best characters in the show.