Hiram Kasten, a respected actor and comedian recognized for his significant contributions to the New York comedy scene and numerous roles in popular TV shows, has died at the age of 71. On Sunday, June 16, 2024, Kasten passed away in his Batavia, New York, home following a battle with prostate cancer and Crohn’s disease.
Born as Hiram Z. Kastenbaum in the Bronx, New York City, on October 30, 1952, Kasten harbored dreams of acting from a young age. He started his career in the late 1970s, making a name for himself at well-known New York comedy establishments such as The Comic Strip. It was here that he formed a lasting friendship with Jerry Seinfeld, an association that would greatly influence his career.
Kasten was a familiar face at Catch a Rising Star, The Improv, The Comedy Cellar, and Caroline’s in the early stages of his career. For many years, he managed his own show on Sunday nights at Dangerfield’s, establishing himself as a key player in the New York comedy scene. His comedic style often echoed vaudeville legends like Alan King and Jackie Gleason.
Kasten moved to Los Angeles, California in the late 1980s to broaden his career. He quickly found success, landing roles in a variety of popular TV shows such as “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” “L.A. Law,” “Cybill,” “Mad About You,” “My Wife and Kids,” “Brooklyn Bridge,” “7th Heaven,” “Men of a Certain Age,” “Everybody Loves Raymond,” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” His portrayal of Michael, a colleague of Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ character Elaine on “Seinfeld,” is considered one of his standout roles.
Additionally, Kasten held a significant role in the Las Vegas show “The Rat Pack is Back” at the Desert Inn, where he played a character similar to Joey Bishop. His comedy work took him around the globe, performing on luxury cruise lines such as Seabourn, Royal Viking, and Princess.
In his later years, Kasten’s health deteriorated, leading him to retire from performing in 2017. However, he maintained his connections with the comedy community. His wife shared on Facebook that the comedy and artistic community rallied to his side, and that late-night Zoom meetings with friends brought him comfort during his final months.
“I always wanted to make people laugh. It’s the greatest feeling in the world,” Kasten once said reflecting on his life and career. His legacy will continue to bring joy to many through his work and the memories he has left behind.
Kasten is survived by his wife, Diana Kisiel Kastenbaum, to whom he was married in June 1986, his daughter, Millicent Jade, and a large extended family. His death came just hours after celebrating his 38th wedding anniversary with Diana.
Funeral services for Kasten was held in Forest Hills, New York, with a memorial service scheduled in Los Angeles, California, later this summer. The family has requested that memorial donations be made to Crossroads House or the Entertainment Community Fund, reflecting Kasten’s lifelong commitment to supporting fellow performers.