Comedians Who Died in 2023 – Those made us Smile and Laugh

What makes a comedian genuinely unforgettable? Is it their ability to make us laugh or how they reflect our shared human experience through humor? These questions feel incredibly emotional when we think about the comedians who died in 2023. Each of these legendary figures brought a unique voice to the comedy world, using their wit and charm to connect with audiences on a deeper level.

As we reflect on the lives and careers of these beloved comedians, we remember not only their jokes and characters but also the ways they touched our hearts. Their humor brought joy and comfort to millions, reminding us of the power of laughter. Though they are no longer with us, their legacy lives on in the countless moments of happiness they gave us, ensuring their impact on the world will never be forgotten.

In the following sections, we’ll look back at the deaths of prominent comedians in 2023, month by month, to honor their contributions and celebrate their lasting influence.

Comedians Who Died in January 2023

Carole Cook – (January 14, 1924 – January 11, 2023)

Carole Cook was born Mildred Frances Cook in Abilene, Texas. She began her career in theater, later gaining fame for her comedic roles on television. In the 1950s and 1960s, Cook made a significant impact with appearances on Lucille Ball’s shows, The Lucy Show and Here’s Lucy, where her sharp wit and engaging performances stood out. Her comedic era was marked by a blend of physical humor and clever dialogue, capturing the spirit of early television comedy. Cook’s Broadway work, including roles in Hello, Dolly! and 42nd Street, further highlighted her talent.

She passed away from heart failure in Beverly Hills, California, just days before her 99th birthday, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances. Carole Cook was one of the beloved comedians who passed away in 2023.

Kelly Monteith – (October 17, 1942 – January 1, 2023)

Kelly Monteith, a prominent figure among comedians who died recently, was born in St. Louis, Missouri. He began his comedy career in the early 1970s, making notable appearances on The Tonight Show and The Late Show with David Letterman. His comedy era gained momentum with the CBS variety show The Kelly Monteith Show (1976), though his BBC series Kelly Monteith (1979-1984) cemented his reputation. The show was renowned for its self-referential humor and breaking the fourth wall, a novel approach at the time. Monteith’s blend of observational humor and personal stories set him apart. He continued influencing comedy through projects like Brit Flix and Kelly Monteith’s BBC Memories. Monteith passed away in Los Angeles at 80, leaving a lasting impact on television comedy.

Polo Polo – (March 9, 1944 – January 23, 2023)

Leopoldo Roberto García Peláez Benítez, known professionally as Polo Polo, was a celebrated Mexican comedian renowned for his elaborate storytelling and adult-oriented humor. As one of the comedy legends who died this year, Polo Polo transitioned from working in his family’s shoe business to performing in small venues. By 1976, his shows at Keops Nightclub had gained significant popularity. Polo’s humor, characterized by explicit language and clever wordplay, led to sold-out performances at major venues like Crown Hall and the Sahara Hotel & Casino. His 1980s live album The Trip to Spain was a major hit despite its controversial content. Polo Polo continued to captivate audiences through the 1990s and 2000s. He passed away on January 23, 2023, at age 78, leaving a lasting impact on the comedy world.

Comedians Who Passed Away in February 2023

Richard Belzer – (August 4, 1944 – February 19, 2023)

Richard Jay Belzer was an American actor, comedian, and author renowned for his iconic role as Detective John Munch in Homicide: Life on the Street and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. As one of the famous comedians who passed away in 2023, Belzer faced a challenging upbringing marked by personal struggles and an abusive household. He initially pursued a career in stand-up comedy, performing at notable venues and on Saturday Night Live. His distinctive style and sharp wit eventually led him to television stardom.

Belzer’s portrayal of Munch became a defining role, spanning over 23 years and appearing in 11 different series. In addition to his acting career, he authored several books on conspiracy theories and made memorable appearances on shows like Sesame Street. Belzer passed away on February 19, 2023, in Bozouls, France, leaving a lasting impact on comedy and television.

Comedians Who Died in March 2023

Paul O’Grady – (June 14, 1955 – March 28, 2023)

Paul James O’Grady was a beloved British comedian, actor, and television presenter renowned for his charismatic presence and sharp wit. Born in Birkenhead, England, O’Grady initially made his mark as a stand-up comedian, performing in clubs and theatres across the UK. He gained widespread recognition with his alter ego, Lily Savage, a bold and larger-than-life drag persona that captivated audiences with its irreverent humor. O’Grady’s success on stage led to a prolific television career, including hosting popular shows like The Paul O’Grady Show, where his blend of humor and heartfelt interviews won him numerous fans. He also made significant contributions to charity and was known for his advocacy work. O’Grady passed away on March 28, 2023, in London, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, humor, and an enduring impact on British entertainment. Paul O’Grady was among the notable comedians who died in 2023.

Comedians Who Passed Away in April 2023

Barry Humphries – (February 17, 1934 – April 22, 2023)

Barry Humphries was an Australian comedian, actor, and author best known for his flamboyant alter ego, Dame Edna Everage. One of the influential comedians who died in 2023, Humphries’ early career in comedy and theatre set the stage for his iconic performances. He gained prominence with his creation of Dame Edna, a character that became a global sensation known for her sharp wit and unique persona.

Humphries had a tumultuous personal life, marked by four marriages. His first marriage to Brenda Wright ended quickly, while his subsequent marriages to Rosalind Tong and Diane Millstead produced four children. His fourth wife, Elizabeth Spender, was his partner until his death. Humphries struggled with alcoholism in the 1960s, which affected his personal relationships but later led him to sobriety.

Throughout his life, Humphries was deeply involved in the arts, with a passion for literature and music. He was an avid collector of rare books and artworks and supported various cultural and charitable causes. He patronized avant-garde music and the Tait Memorial Trust, which supports young Australian performing artists.

Humphries passed away on April 22, 2023, at St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney, following complications from hip surgery. Barry Humphries’s death was widely mourned, with tributes from prominent figures, including members of the British royal family and notable entertainers. Humphries left a lasting legacy in comedy, theatre, and the arts.

Comedians Who Died in May 2023

George Logan – (July 7, 1944 – May 21, 2023)

George Logan, born in Rutherglen, Scotland, was a distinguished British actor, comedian, and pianist. After studying piano at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and moving to London in 1965, he began his career in drag performance. Logan gained fame as Dr. Evadne Hinge in the celebrated drag comedy act Hinge and Bracket alongside Patrick Fyffe. Their act, known for its blend of musical performance and humor, achieved significant acclaim, including successful BBC Radio and television runs.

Logan’s personal life was marked by a long-term partnership with Louie Perone, whom he married in 2019. The couple settled in France, managing a guest house near Le Dorat. Logan passed away on May 21, 2023, in Le Dorat, leaving behind a legacy of comedic and musical contributions that remain remembered and celebrated. George Logan was one of the celebrated comedians who passed away in 2023.

Comedians Who Passed Away in June 2023

Michael Batayeh – (December 27, 1970 – June 1, 2023)

Michael Batayeh, a talented comedian and actor, was among the prominent comedians who died in 2023. Best known for his role as Dennis Markowski in the acclaimed television series Breaking Bad, Batayeh’s career spanned various roles and performances. Born in Detroit, Michigan, he pursued acting passionately after a brief stint at Wayne State University, eventually relocating to Los Angeles. His notable appearances included It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and The Bernie Mac Show.

Batayeh’s portrayal of the manager of a laundromat used as a front for a meth lab in Breaking Bad was particularly memorable. Of Jordanian Orthodox Christian descent, he divided his time between California and Michigan throughout his career. Batayeh died on June 1, 2023, at his home in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Although initially reported as a heart attack, further investigation revealed Michael Batayeh’s death was due to asphyxiation by hanging, with potential suicide implications. His legacy remains in the joy and laughter he brought to many.

Comedians Who Died in July 2023

Paul Reubens – (August 27, 1952 – July 30, 2023)

Paul Reubens was an American actor, comedian, and writer renowned for creating and portraying the beloved character Pee-wee Herman. As one of the comedians who passed away in 2023, Reubens launched his career with Pee-wee in the 1980s, gaining fame with Pee-wee’s Playhouse. His commitment to maintaining Pee-wee’s innocent persona was evident in his avoidance of endorsements for unhealthy products and his efforts to keep the character family-friendly. Reubens’s Pee-wee franchise, which included toys and merchandise, reached a high point in 1988, generating over $25 million.

Reubens died on July 30, 2023, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles at age 70. Paul Reubens’s death was due to acute hypoxic respiratory failure, a consequence of his battle with leukemia and lung cancer, which he had kept private. His legacy endures through his impact on television and fashion and his enduring influence on children’s entertainment.

Comedians Who Passed Away in August 2023

Johnny Hardwick – (December 31, 1958 – August 8, 2023)

Johnny Hardwick was an American voice actor, comedian, writer, producer, and YouTuber best known for his iconic role as Dale Gribble on the acclaimed animated series King of the Hill. Among the comedians who died in 2023, Hardwick pursued a career in comedy and acting, performing stand-up across the U.S. and appearing on various comedy shows. He gained significant recognition when he was cast as Dale Gribble, a character he voiced throughout the show’s 13-year run. His work on King of the Hill earned him a Primetime Emmy Award in 1999 as part of the show’s production team.

Hardwick passed away on August 8, 2023, at his home in Austin, Texas, at age 64. Johnny Hardwick’s death was discovered during a welfare check, and while the exact cause could not be determined, the circumstances suggested a sudden passing. He is remembered for his distinctive voice work and contributions to television and comedy.

Comedians Who Died in September 2023

Mike Yarwood – (June 14, 1941 – September 8, 2023)

Mike Yarwood was a renowned English impressionist, comedian, and actor who was celebrated for his work on British television from the 1960s through the 1980s. Born in Bredbury, Cheshire, Yarwood’s career began in showbiz after a successful talent show performance, leading to his breakthrough on Sunday Night at the London Palladium. His comedy shows during the 1970s were top-rated, with his Mike Yarwood Christmas Show in 1977 attracting a record 21.4 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched British TV programs in history. Known for his sharp impersonations of political figures and celebrities, Yarwood’s portrayals of figures like Harold Wilson and Prince Charles became his trademarks.

Yarwood’s career waned in the late 1980s, and he struggled with stage fright and health issues that led to a quieter period. He passed away on September 8, 2023, at 82, leaving behind a legacy as one of Britain’s most prominent entertainers. His contributions to comedy and television remain fondly remembered by fans and peers alike.

Comedians Who Passed Away in October 2023

Matthew Perry – (August 19, 1969 – October 28, 2023)

Matthew Perry was an acclaimed American actor best known for his iconic role as Chandler Bing on the hit TV show Friends, which aired from 1994 to 2004. Born in Williamstown, Massachusetts, Perry’s career skyrocketed with Friends, earning him widespread recognition and acclaim. His performance in Friends made him a standout figure among comedians and actors who died in 2023. His portrayal of Chandler, known for his sarcastic humor and wit, made him a beloved figure in television history. Perry also appeared in notable projects, including The Whole Nine Yards and 17 Again, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Despite his professional success, Perry’s life was marked by significant struggles with addiction. His battles with substance abuse, including alcohol and prescription drugs, were well-documented, and he underwent numerous rehab stints and health crises over the years. Perry’s honesty about his struggles in his memoir and public appearances contributed to his advocacy efforts, including support for drug courts and addiction recovery.

Perry passed away on October 28, 2023, at the age of 54. Matthew Perry’s death, attributed to acute effects of ketamine and complications from previous health issues, shocked fans, and the entertainment industry. His funeral, held at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, was attended by family and friends, and his legacy is preserved through the Matthew Perry Foundation, which continues to support addiction recovery. Perry’s impact on television and his efforts to aid others in their struggles with addiction remains a significant part of his enduring legacy.

Cal Wilson – (October 5, 1970 – October 11, 2023)

Born in Christchurch, New Zealand, Cal Wilson was a renowned comedian, writer, and television and radio presenter who left a lasting mark on the Australian entertainment industry. As one of the comedians who left us in 2023, Wilson co-founded the Court Jesters improv group and won the World Theatresports title with New Zealand in 1994. Her stand-up career flourished in the late 1990s, highlighted by winning New Zealand’s prestigious Billy T Award in 1997. Wilson achieved further acclaim in Australia, earning the “Best Newcomer” award at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival in 2001 and captivating audiences at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2004.

Wilson’s television career included notable roles on shows like The Wedge, Sleuth 101, and 7 Days, and she provided voices for Kitty Is Not a Cat. Her radio career featured co-hosting The Akmal Show with Cal Wilson and Mornings on Nova 100. Married to Chris Woods in 2008, Wilson had a son and lived in Melbourne. She passed away on October 11, 2023, at the age of 53, from a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Cal Wilson’s death marked the end of a distinguished career that brought joy and laughter to many.

Comedians Who Died in November 2023

Luis Antonio Rivera – (April 9, 1930 – November 30, 2023)

Luis Antonio Rivera, known as “Yoyo Boing,” was a trailblazing Puerto Rican actor, comedian, and television host. Born in Humacao, Puerto Rico, Rivera made his mark in the early days of Puerto Rican television, appearing in groundbreaking shows like “La Críada Malcríada” and “Mi Hippie Me Encanta.” His innovative radio work, including his iconic role as “Yoyo Boing” and his contributions to Puerto Rican music with songs like “El Negro Bembón,” solidified his influence. Rivera was a beloved media figure known for his humor and charisma.

In his later years, Rivera continued to engage audiences through his book “A Reír Con Yoyo” and his role in “Contigo en el tapón.” Despite health challenges, he remained active until his passing on November 30, 2023, at 93. Rivera’s legacy as a pioneering entertainer in Puerto Rican media is remembered fondly by fans and colleagues.

Comedians Who Passed Away in December 2023

Tony Allen (March 4, 1945 – December 1, 2023)

Born Anthony Lawrence Allen, Tony Allen was a trailblazing English comedian and writer renowned as the “godfather of alternative comedy.” His career began in the 1970s with pioneering theatre and street comedy performances. Allen gained prominence in 1979 as a resident comedian at The Comedy Store in London, where he was known for his provocative and thought-provoking humor. Alongside Alexei Sayle, he co-founded Alternative Cabaret, shaping the alternative comedy scene with performances at venues like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Allen’s theatrical contributions include writing and performing in plays such as “Dwelling Unit, Sweet Dwelling Unit,” “Free Milk and Orange Juice,” and his involvement with the Royal Court Theatre. His work extended to journalism and scriptwriting, where he was known for his small press publications and contributions to TV shows like “Spitting Image.”

In addition to his entertainment career, Allen was influential in comedy workshops, teaching at Middlesex University and the University of Kent. He also made a mark in the art world with his involvement in Banksy’s Dismaland. Tony Allen, one of the notable comedians who died in 2023, passed away on December 1, 2023, at 78. His legacy, marked by his significant impact on alternative comedy and theatre, continues to be celebrated.

Tom Smothers – (February 2, 1937 – December 26, 2023)

Tom Smothers, born Thomas Bolyn Smothers III, was a pioneering American comedian, actor, and musician, best known as one half of the Smothers Brothers. Alongside his brother Dick, Smothers gained fame in the 1960s for their innovative and often controversial variety show, The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour. Their show tackled taboo subjects like politics and social issues, frequently clashing with CBS’s standards and practices. Smothers also made notable contributions to music and television, including his collaboration with John Lennon on “Give Peace a Chance” and his later roles in various films and TV shows.

Smothers’s impact extended beyond entertainment as he advocated for free speech and civil liberties. After his show’s cancellation, he remained active in comedy and political advocacy. Tom Smothers, remembered as a key figure among comedians who died in 2023, passed away on December 26, 2023, at the age of 86. His legacy as a pioneer of television comedy and advocate for free speech remains influential.

In the End

In 2023, the comedy world experienced a significant loss with the passing of several iconic comedians. These individuals, each with their distinct style and approach, enriched our lives with humor and wit. Their contributions to comedy went beyond mere entertainment; they profoundly impacted audiences worldwide.

As we reflect on the comedian’s deaths in 2023, we celebrate their legacies and the joy they brought into our lives. Though they are no longer with us, their influence inspires new generations of performers and brings laughter to those who remember them. Their enduring humor and the memories they created will keep their spirits alive, reminding us of the laughter they gifted us and the indelible mark they left on the world of comedy.