Posted on June 22, 2010 - by Morgan Howard
Capt. Phil’s Fate Realized
Tonight, we have finally reached the episode where Capt. Phil suffered his stroke. We have known about this for some time, but haven’t figured out yet how we should feel about it. We can only hope that Discovery Channel doesn’t go “too far” in the editing of these next episodes. These are real lives at stake, not fictional characters played by actors.
Phil’s passing in front of the cameras has drawn lots of media attention. Yesterday, the New York Times wrote an article entitled, “Reality TV Show Faces Ultimate Test”. According to the article, “Capt. Phil had instructed cameramen to keep filming if anything were to happen to him, according to his son Josh and Discovery Channel executives. Out at sea the captain and his longtime cameraman and friend, Todd Stanley, had many conversations about storytelling. “We always talked about having a beginning, a middle and an end,” Mr. Stanley said. “Without one of those three things, you don’t have a story.”
The article goes on further to talk about Josh’s feelings about these next few episodes.
Josh Harris said he was adamant that the consequences of the stroke should be shown, adding that the producers “were very sensitive” about filming. Asked if there were any scenes that he or his brother asked the network not to show, he said, “No, because we want it to be as real as it can get.”
I was surprised from nearly the beginning at how “open” Phil was about letting the cameras capture his life. I remember when the “Deadliest Catch” showed Phil falling asleep at the wheel. I was shocked that Phil let Discovery Channel show that. Of course, it happens to the best of us, but I can’t imagine a skipper ever wanting that to be broadcast to the world. But, Phil wasn’t afraid to show the good and bad.
Now, he leaves us with a new experience in television, where somebody we know lives out their final days in front of the camera.
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July 5, 2010
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Omar said:
Damn, I barely even found out that Phil actually died. I suppose when it happened earlier this year was when I was working a 2 month long night shift and I missed ALL the news.
RIP Phil!
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July 5, 2010
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Kerry J. Foster said:
I have really enjoyed Deadliest Catch ever since Discovery Channel first aired it here in Canada several years ago. I really dont have a favorite vessel or crew however I cant help but feel that Capt.Phil,s passing was like losing a part of my own family. For me personally Capt.Phil taught me alot – not just about life on the Bering Sea but about life in general even if it was only on a T.V. screen. I almost feel like I knew the man – he was a wonderful human being. Thanks Capt.Phil for being a true friend – to all of us and we will all miss you. As for the crew of the Conrelia Marie and Phil,s sons Josh and Jake – my thoughts and prayers go out to you. Take care now. Kerry
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July 5, 2010
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LizKauai said:
What a blessing. How beautifully Capt. Phil prepared everyone for his passing- and prepared himself. His spirituality – love, forgiveness, and self- awareness is so evident in the latest episodes.
It is short of miraculous to see the sequence of events unfold so perfectly. How different it would have been if they had not come to port but were still at sea when the stroke occurred.
Yes, we are all in His Hands. Please know that you are all in the hearts and prayers of many people here in Hawaii.
God Bless and Warmest aloha to all.
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July 5, 2010
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Sunny in NC said:
This is very hard to watch, as I feel I know all involved and seeing friends suffer is never easy.
My husband tossed his pack about the same time we Sig did it. So far, so good. So, here ya go Josh, the reason this is a good idea. Thanks for using this as an opportunity to move forward, instead of getting all bogged down in grief.
As a good friend said, Do not drop anchor here.
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July 6, 2010
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Jamie said:
Hello Josh and Jake
I would like to say I’m very sorry to hear about the lose of your father. My husband and I watch the show every chance we get. I don’t get to watch the news very much we are over the road truck drivers and don’t get local channels but we do have directv and able to record and watch the shows we miss. I know I will personally miss your father to me he was my favorite captian..Once again sorry for your lose..
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July 6, 2010
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tennesseeDREWB said:
My dad and I do not get many chances to just relax and chill together but we have made tuesday nights a GUYS night to cook and watch THE CATCH! You guys on the CM have brought us together for some great memories! The way you guys interacted with your dad is so similar to how my dad and I worked together and I want you to know that I know its hard! You guys hold your heads up and be strong…you guys are wonderful examples to sons all over the world! God bless! O…and love the duck farts!
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July 6, 2010
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Courtney said:
I am an Alaskan native myself, from Wasilla and Fairbanks, and have been watching Deadliest Catch form day one. It is by far my favorite show on TV. I work in the local Veterans home in my town in Missouri and I take care of a Veteran who told me he was a cheif engineer on a crab boat up there. Seeing him as he almost broke down when hearing about Phil broke my heart. He asked my to send his condolences to the family, as well as send my own. Josh, Jake, be strong guys. I cant even imagine what you are going through. God Bless.
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July 6, 2010
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Jarod Strain said:
I’ve been to Alaska and it is my great ambition to return there. I have a 25 foot sloop which is miles from a crab boat, but she’s quite a girl. The sea is its own world and we lucky few find it truly in our blood, our souls rise and fall with the tides. Long after our last breath, our hearts beat with the waves.
Godspeed Captain, into the ditch…
My deepest sympathies Cornelia Marie
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July 6, 2010
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Kendall Leith said:
I watched that episode and I bawled my eyes out. It’s hard to think of anything happening to Phil and this was pretty hard, considering my own father died in November. But I’m glad that they’re showing everything because that’s the way Phil was…that’s how he did it, did life, and he wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.
Can’t wait for next week’s episode. I’ll have the tissues at hand.
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July 6, 2010
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Sara Mirick said:
Everything that has lead up to phil recovering from the stroke has been painful to watch, and saddens me as it does everyone else. It really puts everything into perspective. When I heard the news of his passing, I was shocked, and now to see the footage & raw emotion is devistating. I’m sure that whatever the network shows will be in “good” taste…as good of taste as you can get anyway.
Although I will tune in, I’m not looking forward to it, and I WILL cry. I
guess it’ll be a way to say goodbye to Phil. He was such a sweetheart. At least he was able to see and talk to his sons before he passed, and to see the emotion from all of the captains made me realize just how bonded they all are. I know there is so much more pain from those who knew him, but for those who have watched him and grew to love him, it will be very difficult. We miss you big guy. <3333 RIP
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July 7, 2010
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Angela said:
So sorry to hear about your dad Jack and Josh… although I am from NYC, Deadliest Catch is my favorite show and alaskan crab fishing my favorite topic… I never miss an episode. Its inspiring to see how hard you work and your real relationships… it truly makes you feel like you know Captain Phil in some way. My deepest sympathies… he seemed like a really great person and he will be missed.
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July 7, 2010
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Deadliest Catch Lover said:
Last night was the night. I have it recorded. Kind of afraid to watch it as I have for the past months seeing it will make the reality of losing Phil.
We were almost the same age,I turn 53 on sunday july 11th.
Show’s not the same knowing Phil is up in Heaven. He passed doing what he loved most in the world. It was in his blood. He is missed, was always hoping to see him in more shots. but they are all loved equal.I am a faithful viewer of deadliest catch. record and watch them over and over. I was raised on a boat fishing for Catfish on the colorado river in california. I know that they don’t compare, But it was like i was so excited about the way everybody hollered when the pot was full. Like I said earlier, I’m still a little angry and upset at Jake. They fought and 6 hours Phil is found on his stateroom floor down from a stroke.
My wonderful mother died at 79 last year. Smoked 3 packs of cigarettes a day. Died after coming home from the hospital after 6 days of tests she was released, on Monday and when I talked to her tues night I am so glad I told her I loved her 3 times,she was in calif, I’m in Ny right now.and when I called her next morning, no answer. I had been woken up that night at 3am with a bad dream and the worst indigestion.I think a sign she had passed on at 3am that morning. Coroner said that that was the time of death.I called my uncle to please run up and see if she was ok seeing as she wasnt answering the phone. she was found all alone with her 2 dogs & 2 cats on her bed, but half in and out of her bed with a bottle of pills in her bed.
I just died when my uncle called me and said she was dead. I’m still not over it.Our parents are our saviors. I wish Josh and Jake and their family all of the strength I can send them. My Love and many hugs as you try to move forward. Prayers from Janette in Ny
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July 8, 2010
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Im_not_high said:
Hi,
Phil says he is alright and says there’s to be no drugs on the boat.
Peace
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July 9, 2010
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Debbie R. said:
I remember hearing it on the radio, the day Capt. Phil died and the horrible feeling I got in my stomache..I am a 45 year old women that has seen every episode of Deadliest Catch and Capt Phil had always been my favorite!! He was like a big ole teddy bear, harsh one minute when he had to be and a giant loveable understanding man the next..He was someone you could relate to..You could see the love he had for his boys and also the love his boys had for him..Deadliest Catch will not be the same without Captain Phil Harris, thats for sure!..I am dreading watching next weeks final episode of Capt. Phil and will watch it with the utmost respect and admoration for a man I never knew and have shed many a tear for…Josh and Jake I know how hard it must be for you, but remember your dad as a great human being and the legacy that he left you…remember the man that left a little piece of him in the hearts of those who knew him well and those who only knew him through The Deadliest Catch….you are in my thoughts and have been in my prayers…take care… Debbie R.
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July 9, 2010
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Jo-Anne said:
I’m sorry to hear of Capt Phil’s passing. Have watched many of the episodes and found him to be a real character, straight through and through. He will be sadly missed.
Love to all his family & friends
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July 10, 2010
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Patty Messal said:
From watching previous episodes, I believe he knew his passing was near by certain things he said about his boys and especially bringing out the old photos of his beloved sons…… Blessings~
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July 10, 2010
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M & M Smith said:
What a great lose. Will miss Phil, deadliest catch will not be the same without him. Our love and prayers to Jake and Josh,and family.
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July 10, 2010
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Gene,Arwen and Skyler said:
We are fans of Captain Phil. He always reminded me of my own father who passed away jan 2004. Since my daughters birth I have missed many many episodes and I have been hearing rumors of Captain Phis illness. I am sadden to realize that they were, in fact, not rumors. Our hearts go out to Captain Phils two sons and his entire family. From what we saw on Deadliest Catch he was a strong wonderful man. Rest In Peace Phil
Love,
Gene,Arwen and Skyler
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July 10, 2010
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Samuel Downey said:
what can you say about someone who you have come to respect, like, enjoy, be frustrated along with, pray for, and just be “along for the boatride” with, than Captain Phil? i want to watch the next episode of “catch”, and try to think about the good times i’ve had watching phil, so how can you do this without thinking about how he passed.
i will remember how he fished for those who can’t, like me. i love crab. if it wasn’t for HEROES like Capt. Phil, so many of us who take for granted the luxury of snow crab legs, would be useless people, in the buisness of fishing for this valuable commodity.
i can’t walk anymore, but i’d crawl on my hands and knees to be able to thank the MEN who risk their lives to keep us warm and well fed.
i will miss Phil, we will miss the personality, joviality, and the man who will always be “on the crab”. i pray for both Jake and Josh, and will try to accept Derrick Ray as Captain.
Phil always wanted to smell crab farts. he trusted his savvy, find crab. he did.
i pray that the crew absorbed his knowledge of everything fishing.
let’s keep Freddie smearing cod blood, and thanking the powers that be, to keep the boat full.
they say that time heals all wounds.
but, somethings you just don’t get over so easily. phil is looking down at us,
hoping that we can all get along alright.
we’ll try.
Rest in Peace, Good Captain.
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July 11, 2010
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Thomas Cooke said:
I have watched over the past several years, “The Deadlist Catch”. I have enjoyed all the characters and Phil Harris especially. Learning of his death after seeing the episode of his stroke, I know this coming Tuesday will be hard to watch.
I did not know him personally, however I felt like he came into my house as a friend. It saddens me today to find out how he passed, and I can only say to his family… GOD Bless you and the family. Your dad reminded me of an “Old Salt” from when I was in the Navy.
So in my final words, I would like to say, Thank you Phil Harris for showing us who you were and the values you have instilled in the each of us. GOD Bless and Rest in Peace my friend.
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July 12, 2010
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L P & Anne said:
So shocked to hear about Phil. What a big loss! We’ve talked about him, prayed and already shed some tears even though we haven’t seen his last episode-nor did we know him in person. He was just one of those people that popped out of reality TV to everyone because of his generousness, sincerity and character. How many people can say that ‘everyone’ likes them? Phil could.
We know there are literally millions who send the same wishes as us. But just wanted to in some way saw how Phil’s death touched us, as well as the part of his life we saw and knew. He was a good man, a good soul.
We will see you on the other side Phil!!
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July 15, 2010
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Andy said:
I live in cornwall in the uk and only found out yesterday that our favourite captain philhas passed away. My thoughts are with you Josh and Jake. I have watched the Deadliest catch for sometime now on sky and admired the way that your dad could be your boss but also showed you love and affection. Im sure that he will be looking down on you and will continue to guide you through your lives. What ever you do you will make your Dad proud. I will continue to watch the Deadliest catch and will always remember phil. God Bless you both and to all your fellow fisherman family and friends
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July 15, 2010
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Linda Lee said:
I was so very sad to hear of your father’s death..he was my favorite on the Deadliest Catch..I’ve just lost my husband recently an to hear of his death has added to that sorrow as well..may the Good Lord be with your family..sincerely,Linda
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July 16, 2010
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Caitlin Baker said:
Terry Hatcher is still the prettiest and sexiest actress in Desperate Housewives”,:
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July 19, 2010
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deadliestcatchchfanforever said:
Phil always made me laugh as well as cry a few times! I am so sorry that his life was cut short. He had such a big heart and the love and pride he had for his sons was very evident.
Jake – Don’t let this time of grief keep you from getting the help you need! Now more than ever is the time to get your life back. You can do it!
Josh – It is funny to me that your dad was always saying that Jake was the fisherman. From the first day I saw you on the show you seemed determined to learn everything you could and make your dad proud. You succeeded in that and you will make a great captain one day!
Rest in peace Captain Phil. May your seas always be calm and your catch overflowing. :)
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July 19, 2010
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sytze heun said:
hallo
ik kijk elke aflevering
rust in vrede captain phil
you ar the best
groeten uut holland
een matroos uut groningen stad
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July 25, 2010
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Jeff Audette said:
I watched captain Phil Harris final episodes and I was very moved. You could see all the years and life experience on his face. When he was coughing up blood he knew it was very serious and yet it took him time to come to terms with his health. He kept right on smoking, even though he was having trouble breathing. This guy was as tough as they come. He couldn’t give up the ship and his pride would not let him. Even his own son couldn’t get through to him. It was tough to watch his world fall apart. Too bad he couldn’t live forever. His respect for his men and the sea were unmatched. God bless you Phil
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July 25, 2010
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Faith Belair said:
I’ve watched Deadliest Catch since day 1..we have a Fisherman in our Family, I’ve always loved Phil, Syg, Andy, Johnathon, All of them ….however right now, Captain Phil’s death is terrible. Its almost like We’ve lost a family member. I’m hoping to see in the next season Jake leave the NorthWestern and Join the Cornelia Marie with Jake and Josh….They treat him better, and he deserves to be treated better. Know one mentions his dad…It’s sad and I feel bad for him!
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July 26, 2010
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elenora said:
its not going to be the same to see the show with out capt. phil.i hope that you two boys can see your way back to the cornelia marie it wouldnt be the same with out you. same for you to terry you are part of there family to all of them
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July 28, 2010
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megan cleveland-morris III said:
My husband passed away 6/17/2010, before he was able to watch the most emotional episode of his favorite show. i was so beyond hysterical at the emotions of both losses that i went through an entire box of kleenex. We love you phil and I love you Edward with every piece of my being, way too young to leave this world… both of you!!!!
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August 2, 2010
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Joseph Gallina said:
My condolences to Jake and Josh. Phil couldn’t have loved the two of you any more and you made him incredibly proud.
Keep your chins up, I am sure the two of you will both honorably claim the wheel.
I admire Jake for what he is doing and I wish him the best of luck.
God bless you Phil and may you experience clear skies and calm seas for always.
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August 17, 2010
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Larry Davis said:
Phil Harris was the kind of man we all wish we could be, and the kind of father we all should be. He left the world a better place by simply being on it for 53 years. Peace be with you Captain.
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September 8, 2010
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Chris said:
This whole series has brought home the very real meaning of “For those in peril on the sea” Phil touched my heart and I found it a humbling experience. Here was a man of immense courage, honesty and integrity. I am not a sea captain, but I am an aircraft captain. To his son’s and the family that is the fleet at Dutch Habour, from one captain to others, my condolenses for your loss. Stay safe out there guys.
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September 9, 2010
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Brian Pedersen said:
The last season’s footage has just reached australia but with thanks to the net even though late My wife and I wish To Send Our best wishes to jake and josh as well as all the crew of the corfnelia marie and all the other crews.
Phil is sadly missed and we both are saddened by his loss.
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September 21, 2010
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Frank Watts said:
I only just found out about the loss of Phil. Like many of the other people here I also felt that he was a friend. The deadliest Catch won’t be the same without him. I also lost my father this year and can imagine what you are going through. Keep working hard and make him proud.
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October 22, 2010
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Humidity Temperature : said:
the girls of desperate housewives are hot but i like cougar town”,’
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December 12, 2010
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Body Scrub Recipes said:
i love cougars that is why i love to watch Desperate Housewives and also Cougar Town ,:*
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December 13, 2010
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noel lariviere said:
with the north wind wispering in the sunset i feel the loss of a real family that stuck togather in the most challanging weather on the planet a new challange to the family and crew you had the beginning and the middle of the story but no end yet because the story continues on inn the greatest story told on planet earth in the baring sea
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July 16, 2011
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July 19, 2011
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