Shecky Greene Dies: Legendary Las Vegas Comedian Was 97

Stand-up comedy giant, Shecky Greene, who came to prominence during the 1950s and ’60s as a leading figure in the Las Vegas entertainment scene, has passed away. Greene's wife, Miriam Musso Greene, confirmed to the Las Vegas Review Journal that her husband died of natural causes at their Las Vegas home on Sunday morning. He was 97 years old.

Greene, who was born and bred in North Side, Chicago, first honed his comedy skills at the Prevue Lounge in New Orleans, Louisiana. His career later led him to perform in clubs across Miami, Chicago, and Reno/Lake Tahoe, before he eventually landed in Las Vegas. He first took the stage in Las Vegas in 1954, opening for Dorothy Shay, the "Park Avenue Hillbillie," at the Last Frontier. He then ascended to headliner status at The Tropicana Hotel in 1957, a position he held for the subsequent five years. Greene's last performance in Las Vegas was at the South Point Showroom in 2011.

The many highlights of his colorful career include appearances in numerous films such as Tony Rome, History of the World Part I, and Splash. His most recent film work was in The Last Producer, released in 2000. Greene’s TV career included guest roles on hit shows including Mad About You, Northern Exposure, Roseanne, The Law & Harry McGraw, Laverne & Shirley, and Love, America Style.

Famed TV host Johnny Carson was one of Greene’s numerous fans. Greene graced The Tonight Show with his humor 40 times, also serving as a guest host occasionally. He made similar appearances on The Merv Griffin Show.

Unfortunately, severe stage fright and panic attacks marred Greene's later years, which led him to step away from the limelight for some time. Despite his personal struggles, Greene's undeniable talent was recognized when he was inducted into the National Comedy Hall of Fame in March 2020 in Las Vegas.

Greene's survivors include his wife Miriam, two daughters, two sisters-in-law, and a nephew and nieces.