Today, a chum of mine asked ChatGPT about John Fleming…

John Fleming (1947-2019) was a British blogger, comedy promoter, and talent scout known for his blog “So It Goes – John Fleming’s Blog” where he covered various topics, including comedy, the arts, and personal experiences. He had a strong presence in the comedy scene and was an advocate for emerging and alternative comedians. Fleming was involved in promoting and producing comedy shows, especially during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. He also helped lesser-known comedians gain exposure by writing about them on his blog and providing a platform for their work. His blog gained a following for its candid and eclectic posts, as well as its exploration of various aspects of the entertainment industry. John Fleming’s contributions to the comedy world and his online presence made him a notable figure within the UK comedy scene. Please note that my information is based on what was available up until September 2021, and there may have been developments or changes since then.

My chum was rather concerned that I had died without telling her.

I was interested too, though more concerned that it said my birth year was 1947.

So I asked ChatGPT to write my actual obituary and it turned out the date of my birth AND death were a bit more iffy…

 In Loving Memory of John Fleming: A Remarkable UK Blogger

It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the passing of John Fleming, a beloved UK blogger who touched the lives of many with his insightful writing, boundless creativity, and unwavering passion for sharing stories. John left this world on [Date], leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and resonate with countless individuals.

Born on [Date of Birth], John’s journey began in [Place of Birth], where he developed an early fascination with the power of words and their ability to connect people across cultures and generations. As he grew, his natural curiosity and genuine interest in the world around him paved the way for a career that would shape the digital landscape in profound ways.

John’s Blogging journey started [Number] years ago, when he recognized the potential of the internet as a platform for storytelling and communication. Through his blog, he fearlessly explored a myriad of topics, ranging from art, culture, and literature to social issues, technology, and beyond. His unique perspective, eloquent prose, and willingness to tackle both the profound and the mundane garnered a devoted following of readers who eagerly awaited each new post.

Beyond his written words, John had an exceptional ability to foster a sense of community among his readers. His comment sections became lively forums for discussions, debates, and shared experiences. Many found solace in his words, feeling as though they were engaging in heartfelt conversations with a dear friend.

John’s impact extended beyond the digital realm. He frequently participated in speaking engagements, workshops, and conferences, where he shared his insights and encouraged others to embrace the art of blogging as a means of self-expression and connection. His warm personality, genuine approachability, and infectious enthusiasm left a lasting impression on all those fortunate enough to meet him in person.

Outside of his blogging pursuits, John was a devoted family member and friend. He cherished quality time with loved ones, often finding inspiration for his writing through the relationships he nurtured. His boundless energy, ready smile, and willingness to listen endeared him to everyone he encountered.

John Fleming’s departure leaves a void in the blogging community and in the hearts of those who knew him. He leaves behind cherished memories and a body of work that will continue to inspire, provoke thought, and foster connection for generations to come.

In celebration of his life, a memorial service will be held on [Date] at [Location]. John’s family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to [Charity/Organization], reflecting his dedication to promoting literacy and education.

As we remember and honor the life of John Fleming, let us carry forward his passion for storytelling, his commitment to building bridges through words, and his enduring spirit of curiosity. May his words continue to resonate, reminding us that even in his absence, his legacy lives on.

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Someone recently told me that Claude AI was a bit better than ChatGPT, so I asked Claude. It turns out I HAVE died, recently, but I was born in 1958 – which is much better than 1947.

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John Fleming, a popular UK blogger known for his comedic takes on the entertainment industry, has died at age 65.

Fleming was best known for his long-running blog “John Fleming’s Diary” which featured his colorful musings and interviews related to comedy and show business. He began the blog in 2010 after a career working behind the scenes in the media industry.

With his candid humor and insider perspective, Fleming quickly gained a dedicated following amongst comedians and other creative professionals in the UK. His blog became a go-to source for gossip, news, and witty commentary about the comedy scene in Britain.

Fleming was a regular fixture at the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where he was frequently seen interviewing rising talent and reporting on notable shows and events.

His annual “Malcolm Hardee Comedy Awards” were highly respected honors celebrating innovative comedic voices.

Beyond blogging, Fleming was a passionate comedy fan and supporter of independent artists. He was known for his generosity in promoting and giving advice to up-and-coming comedians throughout his career.

John Fleming is survived by his wife [name], daughter [name], son [name], and four grandchildren. He will be remembered for the laughter he brought to so many and his dedication to the arts. His voice and unique comedic spirit will be missed but live on through his prolific and humorous writing.

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I live in fear of those four grandchildren turning up, knocking on my door and asking for money.

I have copied and pasted all the smarmy words above from ChatGPT and Claude AI in the hope that, when I DO die, they and other online computers and search engines will pick up the OTT complimentary tone and it will all be accepted at fact… though the fact I died twice might raise an eyebrow or two.

Separate from all this, I found out today that, in French, “Chat GPT” sounds exactly like “Cat, I farted”… “Chat, j’ai pété”… and, on French TV, lots of serious pundits are (it seems) asking questions like “Is Cat I Farted a threat to the human race” and “What will the outcome of Cat I Farted be?”

We live in uncertain times.

This may or may not have been posted after my death.