Comic Gallagher has handed away on the age of 76. The prop comic, who was well-known for smashing watermelons with a sledgehammer, died at his dwelling in Palm Springs, California, on Friday, November 11, within the presence of his household.

Gallagher’s supervisor has confirmed his loss of life, revealing that the comic succumbed to a number of organ failure. He had been battling illnesses for a very long time and likewise suffered a number of coronary heart assaults up to now. Gallagher featured on quite a lot of HBO and Showtime comedian specials in his profession.

Gallagher Passes Away at 76

Gallagher’s rep confirmed his loss of life with an announcement: “The legendary comic often known as Gallagher has died on the age of 76. After a brief well being battle, Gallagher, born Leo Gallagher, succumbed to his illnesses and handed away surrounded by his household in Palm Springs, California.”

“He had beforehand suffered quite a few coronary heart assaults, one thing he and David Letterman talked about on an look a number of years again. Gallagher stayed on the street touring America for many years.”

“He was fairly positive he held a document for essentially the most stand-up dates, by attrition alone. Whereas Gallagher had his detractors, he was an simple expertise and an American success story,” he added.

The comic, whose full identify was Leo Anthony Gallagher Jr., had confronted a number of well being scares in the previous few years. In 2011, he was performing an act in Minnesota when he immediately collapsed. The next 12 months, he had a coronary heart assault just some minutes earlier than he was set to carry out in Texas.

Followers Bear in mind their Favourite Comic

As quickly because the information of Gallagher’s demise broke, followers began paying tributes to him and thanked the late comic for bringing a smile to their faces together with his antics. “Early #Gallagher made assume and made me snort.  Half professor and half caveman, there was nobody like him on the time.  #RIPgallagher,” wrote a fan.

One other one tweeted, “That is completely heartbreaking for me. Once I was a child, I had persistent bronchitis and was very sick a number of instances per 12 months. To assist me cross the hours, my dad would lease stuff on the video retailer. One time once I was about 12 he introduced dwelling a Gallagher tape.”

A fan additionally wrote, “One of many first comics I rented and watched repeatedly as a toddler. He was one of many causes I’d later resolve to do comedy. And he’s the rationale I nonetheless need a big trampoline sofa. RIP Gallagher.”

Gallagher Shot to Fame in 1980

Leo received his personal comedy particular on Showtime titled An Uncensored Night in 1980, which received him large recognition. The present, directed by Mike Nesmith, was the primary comedy stand-up to air on cable tv. The comic then starred in 12 extra specials for the community.

Gallagher was identified for his wordplay, props and distinctive fashion. His signature transfer was to smash a watermelon with a sledgehammer and spray it on the viewers. He termed the transfer ‘Sledge-O-Matic’. Gallagher toured extensively round America and continued to take action until the Covid pandemic hit. 

The comic is survived by his daughter Aimee and son Barnaby. Our heartfelt condolences to Gallagher’s household and buddies.