The Inner Circle kicked off its annual benefit show in Manhattan on Saturday with a touching tribute to Connor Skelding, a respected member of the Post’s Sunday team who lost his battle with pancreatic cancer almost exactly a year ago. He expressed his condolences.
The entire audience in the Ziegfeld Ballroom sang “Amazing Grace” in unison, and footage of Skelling and the late Fox News radio anchor Matt Napolitano was broadcast around the room, followed by the mayor, media and politicians. The annual Comic Roast has begun.
“I couldn’t think of a better way to honor the anniversary of my husband’s death. It’s so heartwarming to see his dear colleagues pay tribute to him and his talent,” said Skelding. ‘s widow, Lizzie Trellstad, told the Post.
“I love him deeply and will miss him very much.”
Inner Circle began the solemn montage by listing Skeding’s many accomplishments, starting with graduating from Columbia University in 2014 with a major in Anglo-American studies.
He was also the editor of Blue and White, an Ivy League undergraduate magazine.
“Connor is a Columbia University graduate who values education, where he began his career in journalism,” said Inner Circle President James Ford.
“Reported in Politico, Riorg Research, and the New York Post. He married his longtime girlfriend and fiancée, Lizzie, just weeks before his death.”
In addition to listing Skeding’s countless accomplishments as a journalist, Inner Circle also made sure to highlight his successes as the group’s youngest member.
While in a sketch comedy group, Scheding gained fame by impersonating “Dancing (former Ohio Gov. John) Kasich” and President Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, Ford said. It is said that
“And he proved by playing Justin Trudeau that he has a much better sense of humor and a much better singing voice than the Prime Minister of Canada,” the president continued.
The montage then cut to a hilarious video of Skeding singing the Canadian national anthem. “Oh Canada, Trump has made us great again!”
The Inner Circle also paid tribute to Fox News Radio anchor Matt Napolitano, who passed away in December due to complications from lupus.
That’s when the audience turned on their cellphone flashlights, waved them in the air and sang the popular funeral hymn.
“That’s what I’m talking about!” These lyrics could also be substituted for “Stairway to Heaven” and “House of the Rising Sun.” I’m completely serious. please think about it. Give it a try,” Ford joked.
“Connor and Matt, we love you!” he continued, before transitioning the show into what has become famous as a parody spectacle.
Mayor Eric Adams also took to the stage Saturday night and used the opportunity to criticize the Big Apple’s newspapers.
He’s even targeted the Post, which he called his “favorite local paper.”
“Many people criticize them for sensationalism and sensational crimes, but what the heck do you mean? That’s my job!” he crowed.
