Comedian Who Appeared on “America’s Got Talent” Has Died

Comedian Who Appeared on "America's Got Talent" Has Died

Perry Kurtz, a comedian who performed on America’s Got Talent, has passed away at age 73 following a tragic hit-and-run incident.

At a Glance

  • Perry Kurtz, a Los Angeles comedian, has died in a hit-and-run collision at age 73.
  • The incident occurred in Tarzana around 11:20 p.m.
  • LAPD arrested 18-year-old Nathan Jaimes in connection with the hit-and-run.
  • Kurtz was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.
  • Kurtz’s comedy career spanned 51 years, starting in 1973.

The Tragic Incident

Perry Kurtz, known for his appearances on America’s Got Talent and The Late Late Show with James Corden, was killed in a hit-and-run incident in Tarzana, Los Angeles. The collision occurred around 11:20 p.m. on August 15 as Kurtz was crossing Ventura Boulevard. A gray Honda Civic struck Kurtz and continued eastbound without stopping or rendering aid. Kurtz, unfortunately, was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

Authorities arrested 18-year-old Nathan Jaimes in connection with the incident. The vehicle was later found abandoned not far from the collision site. Kurtz’s daughter, Zelda Velazquez, confirmed his death, leading to an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow comedians alike.

A Storied Career

Perry Kurtz’s comedy career began in 1973 after he won a talent contest. He grew up in Philadelphia, relocated to San Francisco in 1979, and decided to pursue comedy full-time. He performed on various platforms, including America’s Got Talent’s eighth season and The Late Late Show with James Corden. Kurtz also headlined at Dangerfield’s in the ’80s and was a regular at the Comedy Store in Hollywood.

Tributes

In the wake of his passing, his agent and another seasoned comedian have paid tribute to Perry Kurtz online. According to Kurtz’s manager, he had been actively posting videos showcasing his musical talents and stand-up sets until just days before the incident. His last performance included karaoke at Pat’s Cocktail Lounge, a video of which he posted on Facebook later that night.

Kurtz’s long-standing presence in the comedy community was revered. His agent, Dante Rusciolelli, said in a statement, “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 greatly missed. Our prayers are with his family.” This sentiment encapsulates the void left by Kurtz’s sudden passing.

Michael Winslow, another actor and comedian, posted to X saying Kurtz was “there during [his] early years in comedy.” Winslow expressed that he would miss Kurtz.

Sources

  1. Perry Kurtz, Los Angeles Comedian and ‘America’s Got Talent’ Candidate, Dies in Car Collision at 73
  2. Perry Kurtz, Comedian And ‘America’s Got Talent’ Alum, Dies In Los Angeles Hit-And-Run
  3. Perry Kurtz, Comedian and America’s Got Talent Alum, Dies at 73 After Hit and Run

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