John Mulrooney, a stand-up comedian born in Brooklyn, renowned as the host of “Comic Strip Live” on Fox and for his brief stint on “The Late Show,” passed away on December 29, 2025, at his residence in Coxsackie, New York. He was 67 years old.
The cause of Mulrooney’s death was not immediately disclosed. The comedian, known for his dynamic performances, began his career in the early 1980s, performing at top comedy venues nationwide.
Born on August 27, 1958, in Brooklyn, New York, Mulrooney attended Brooklyn Technical High School before venturing into comedy. Before embracing comedy, he competed in the Golden Gloves boxing competition. He kickstarted his comedy career in the early 1980s at Pips nightclub in Sheepshead Bay, a Brooklyn venue that served as a launchpad for his career.
His initial success led him to participate in “Star Search,” a widely-recognized talent competition. Following his performances as a contestant, he joined the show’s writers room, gaining exposure to varied aspects of the comedy industry.
Mulrooney replaced Joan Rivers on “The Late Show” in 1987 during a turbulent time for the Fox show. He also guest hosted “The Pat Sajak Show” on CBS and made appearances on various television programs including HBO, Showtime, and PBS’s “Comedy Tonight.” His television work includes an appearance on the “Ellen” show.
The comedian was a regular at renowned comedy venues like The Improv, The Laugh Factory, and Dangerfield’s. His ability to engage with the audience and improvise made him a favorite among comedy club audiences throughout his career.
In 1994, Mulrooney was featured alongside fellow Brooklyn comedian Andrew Dice Clay, who also began his career at Pips, on a Valentine’s Day pay-per-view special. The two comedians share a history rooted in the 1980s Brooklyn comedy scene.
Clay honored his friend on social media, highlighting his determination and adaptability. “He never gave up, he never stopped trying, which is what it’s all about in my book,” Clay wrote. “Not everybody climbs to the top, and not everybody becomes a superstar. John was a great, great comedian.”
Mulrooney expanded his scope beyond stand-up comedy and television hosting to acting, as demonstrated in the 1989 musical film “Great Balls of Fire!” where he played Jack Paar.
His family mentioned that Mulrooney’s appearances for U.S. troops overseas were among his most cherished moments. Through these USO tours, he brought humor to servicemembers stationed far from home, providing entertainment in tough circumstances.
Besides comedy, Mulrooney had a significant career in radio. He hosted shows in New York City, Cleveland, Ohio, and Albany, New York. In the late 1990s, he co-hosted a morning show with Bob Wohlfeld on WPYX. He also collaborated with iHeartRadio, launching “Mulrooney in the Morning” in 2014.
In an unexpected career move, Mulrooney joined the Coxsackie Police Department as a rookie cop at 52 in 2010. He served until 2024, juggling his duties as a police officer with his continuing work in comedy and radio. This second career led him to perform at fundraisers for police and fire departments nationwide, merging his entertainment skills with his dedication to public service.
Adam Sandler acknowledged Mulrooney’s comedic talent, recalling the challenge of performing after him. “I remember Mulrooney would just destroy a room,” Sandler said. “He was so loose and would dominate the room, and then they’d bring you up, and you’re like, ‘Oh, goodness gracious.'”
Donations in Mulrooney’s memory can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, as indicated by his family. This philanthropic organization has been long supported by entertainers aiming to help children fight severe illnesses.
His family stated that Mulrooney “will be remembered as much for being a loyal friend to countless people as for the laughter he brought to a multitude of strangers.” They added that “his voice, his stories and his spirit will continue to echo in the lives of those he touched.”