Perry Kurtz, Comedian from ‘America’s Got Talent’ has passed away. He was 73.

On August 15, Kurtz died in a tragic hit-and-run in Tarzana, California. The comedian was crossing the street on Ventura Boulevard when he was hit by a gray Honda Civic. The car kept driving according to a Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) press release. 

According to the LAPD, the accident happened at about 11:30 p.m. He was pronounced dead at the accident scene. The suspect drove away from the scene without stopping. 

Later, the police found and arrested 18-year-old Nathon James at his home on the morning of August 16. The suspect has been charged with a felony hit-and-run resulting in death. It is not known if James has retained a lawyer.

Rest in peace PERRY KURTZ.Golden Artists Entertainment and myself are devastated by this news. Perry was not only a client, he’s been my friend since 1987. He has been a staple in the Los Angeles comedy community for decades and will be missed. Our prayers are with his family. pic.twitter.com/QQ0BQqOxi5

— Dante (@Dantethecomic) August 16, 2024

His friend and manager Dante paid tribute to Kurtz on X, he wrote:

“Rest in peace PERRY KURTZ.

Golden Artists Entertainment and myself are devastated by this news. Perry was not only a client, he’s been my friend since 1987. He has been a staple in the Los Angeles comedy community for decades and will be missed. Our prayers are with his family.”

Perry Kurtz was a veteran comedian known for his energetic and interactive comedy style, which has entertained audiences for several decades.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Perry Kurtz developed a love for comedy at a young age. His early inspirations included classic comedians like George Carlin and Richard Pryor. After dabbling in local comedy clubs, Kurtz decided to pursue comedy full-time, moving to Los Angeles in the late 1970s.

In Los Angeles, Kurtz quickly made a name for himself. He became a regular performer at iconic venues such as The Comedy Store and The Laugh Factory, where his unconventional approach to comedy set him apart from his peers. Kurtz’s ability to connect with audiences through spontaneous interactions and personalized jokes became his trademark.

Throughout his career, Perry Kurtz has appeared on numerous television shows, including “America’s Got Talent,” “The Tonight Show,” and “Late Night with David Letterman.” At the end of the article there is a video of Kurtz’s appearance on “The Late Late Show with James Corden.” His television appearances have brought his comedy to a wider audience. 

 

Rest In Peace