URGENT UPDATE: Standup comedian and former late-night host John Mulrooney has died at the age of 67. According to reports from the Times Union, Mulrooney passed away unexpectedly at his home in Coxsackie, New York, on December 29, 2023. Details regarding the cause of his death have not yet been disclosed.
Mulrooney, best known for his role as the host of Fox’s Late Show in the late 1980s, replaced Joan Rivers and quickly became a notable figure in the comedy world. His tenure was brief, but it marked a significant moment in late-night television history.
Throughout his career, Mulrooney hosted several television programs, including Comedy Tonight and Comic Strip Live. He was a familiar presence on the standup scene during the 1980s, frequently performing at iconic venues like the Improv, the Comic Strip, and the Laugh Factory. His energetic performances left lasting impressions on audiences and fellow comedians alike.
“I remember Mulrooney would just destroy a room,”
said actor and comedian Adam Sandler in a 2024 interview. “He was so loose and would dominate the room, and then they’d bring you up, and you’re like, ‘Oh, goodness gracious.’”
Beyond his comedy career, Mulrooney also made waves in radio. His show Wolf and Mulrooney in the Morning aired in multiple cities during the late 1990s and early 2000s. In 2014, he began hosting Mulrooney in the Morning on the iHeartRadio network, continuing to reach audiences with his unique brand of humor.
Remarkably, Mulrooney also served as a police officer in Coxsackie from 2010 to 2014, blending his passion for comedy with community service by performing at police and fire department fundraisers nationwide.
Mulrooney is remembered not only for his comedic talent but also as a loving and devoted son, brother, and uncle. His unexpected passing has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and fans.
As further details emerge surrounding his death, fans and fellow comedians alike are mourning the loss of a true icon in the comedy world. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
