John Mulrooney, a beloved stand-up comedian, radio personality, and veteran of late-night television, has passed away suddenly at the age of 67.
Leaving a profound void in the comedy and entertainment community. According to Albany’s Times Union, Mulrooney died at his home in Coxsackie,.
New York, on December 29, 2025, in what friends and colleagues describe as an unexpected loss. The official cause of death has not been disclosed, and those close to him say the news came as a complete shock.
Mulrooney’s life was defined by versatility, dedication, and a rare combination of talent and charisma that spanned multiple facets of entertainment. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, he began his career during the gritty, competitive comedy scene of the early 1980s.
His early days were spent honing his craft at legendary venues such as Dangerfield’s and Sheepshead Bay, where raw talent, timing, and stage presence were tested nightly.
These formative years helped shape Mulrooney into the performer who would later captivate audiences across the country, both in clubs and on national television.
By the late 1980s, Mulrooney’s career expanded into Hollywood, where he became a familiar face on stage and screen. His performances at iconic comedy venues like The Improv and The Laugh Factory solidified his reputation as a comic who could command attention effortlessly.
He appeared on widely recognized television programs including Comic Strip Live, Comedy Tonight, Great Balls of Fire!, An Evening at the Improv, and Andrew Dice Clay and His Gang Live! The Valentine’s Day Massacre. Each appearance showcased his quick wit, sharp observational humor, and magnetic stage presence.
In 1987, Mulrooney briefly replaced Joan Rivers as the host of The Late Show, cementing his place in the annals of late-night television history. While his tenure was short, it highlighted his ability to adapt to new formats and connect with viewers in a way that few comedians could.
His television career further included appearances on Star Search and The New Hollywood Squares, guest spots on Ellen and The Good Life, as well as hosting Fox’s King of the Mountain and The Pat Sajak Show. In addition, he created and starred in Midtown North, a short-lived Comedy Central sitcom that allowed him to explore scripted comedy while maintaining his signature humor.
Radio Career and a Distinctive Voice
Following his television work, Mulrooney returned to New York, where he successfully transitioned into radio—a medium where his voice, timing, and humor could reach audiences in a more intimate and daily context.
He first hosted The John and Abbey Show on 105.1 “The Buzz”, captivating listeners with his infectious personality and relatability.
Later, he co-hosted the immensely popular Wolf and Mulrooney in the Morning alongside Bob “The Wolf” Wohlfeld on WPYX, another platform that allowed him to blend comedy, commentary, and personal stories in ways that resonated with East Coast listeners.
Mulrooney’s radio career also included stops at WPDH and iHeartRadio, where his unmistakable voice remained a staple on morning airwaves. Listeners admired his ability to balance humor with insight, creating moments of laughter while still engaging thoughtfully with news, pop culture, and local events.
For decades, his presence on radio made him a familiar and comforting voice, bridging the gap between the stage and the home.
Even late into his career, Mulrooney never stopped performing live comedy. Just months prior to his passing, in May 2025, he shared the stage with Colin Quinn and Aidan O’Kelley at the Craic Comedy Fest in Astoria, New York. His performances continued to draw audiences who appreciated his sharp wit, timing, and warmth—qualities that had endeared him to fans for decades.
Tributes from Friends and Fellow Comedians
Following the news of his passing, tributes poured in from friends, fans, and colleagues. On a 2024 episode of Joe Rogan’s podcast, actor and comedian Adam Sandler reflected on Mulrooney’s early days in comedy.
“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.’” Sandler’s words highlight Mulrooney’s natural ability to engage, entertain, and command attention, whether on stage or behind the microphone.
Beyond comedy, Mulrooney’s life was also marked by service. In 2010, he embarked on a 14-year career as a police officer, a role he fulfilled until 2024 while continuing to perform.
His unique combination of law enforcement experience and comedic skill allowed him to entertain and support first responders, performing at fundraisers for police and fire departments nationwide. His dual dedication to laughter and public service reflected a life committed to both craft and community.
Personal Life, Hobbies, and Legacy
Mulrooney’s obituary described him as a “beloved stand-up comedian, dedicated public servant, and proud patriot whose life was defined by service, laughter and an unwavering devotion to the people he loved.” Outside of entertainment and public service, he was a recreational pilot, adding another dimension to a life defined by curiosity and adventure.
Friends, including musician Steven Van Zandt, shared their shock at the sudden news. Van Zandt reflected on their recent interactions, noting that Mulrooney had been excited about the upcoming holiday season and 2026.
“To talk to somebody less than two weeks ago, and he had mentioned what he was doing for Christmas, and he was looking forward to 2026 because he had a pretty full calendar. It’s all so unexpected. It’s still sinking in,” Van Zandt said, highlighting how sudden and surprising this loss was.
Mulrooney’s obituary also emphasized his enduring personal qualities: loyalty, warmth, and the ability to bring laughter to countless strangers. “John 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. His voice, his stories and his spirit will continue to echo in the lives of those he touched,” it read.
While John Mulrooney’s career spanned decades across television, radio, and stand-up comedy, his impact extended far beyond entertainment. Mulrooney was widely admired not only for his comedic skill but also for the compassion and generosity he brought into every space he entered—whether a comedy club, a radio studio, or a community fundraiser.
Supporting First Responders and Communities
One of the most remarkable aspects of Mulrooney’s later career was his dedication to first responders. While continuing to perform comedy, he became a sought-after entertainer for police and fire department fundraisers across the United States. His unique combination of humor and firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by first responders allowed him to connect deeply with audiences who often operate under high-stress conditions.
Mulrooney’s performances for these events were not merely entertainment—they were morale boosters. Stories from organizers describe him using humor to break tension, create camaraderie, and highlight the importance of community.
These performances reinforced his reputation as someone who understood the human side of service, and who used his talent to give back in meaningful ways.
Even as he served as a police officer from 2010 to 2024, Mulrooney maintained this dual commitment. Balancing the demands of law enforcement with a rigorous performance schedule required exceptional discipline and energy. Yet he approached both roles with characteristic warmth, humility, and focus, demonstrating a rare ability to excel in multiple, highly demanding arenas simultaneously.
Radio: A Platform for Connection and Influence
Mulrooney’s contributions to radio were equally influential. Shows like The John and Abbey Show and Wolf and Mulrooney in the Morning allowed him to connect with listeners in a uniquely personal way. Fans admired the balance of humor, authenticity, and insight that he brought to every broadcast.
His voice became a familiar and comforting presence, a bridge between the outside world and a moment of laughter or reflection in listeners’ daily lives.
During his tenure at radio stations such as WPDH and later iHeartRadio, Mulrooney was known for his ability to engage listeners with sharp comedic timing, relatable anecdotes, and thoughtful commentary.
He could make people laugh with a simple observation or clever story, but he also cultivated a sense of community through listener interaction and shared experiences. Many fans remember calling in to his shows and leaving with a sense of personal connection, as if John was a friend in their living room.
Even after decades in the business, he maintained relevance by mentoring younger hosts and performers, passing on both the craft and the ethos of connecting with audiences genuinely.
His influence shaped the next generation of comedians and radio personalities, ensuring that his legacy extended beyond his own performances.
Stand-Up Comedy: A Career of Unmatched Energy and Wit
John Mulrooney’s stand-up career remained a constant throughout his life, bridging decades and styles of comedy. From his earliest days at Dangerfield’s to major festivals like the Craic Comedy Fest, Mulrooney was celebrated for his ability to dominate a room with energy, timing, and precision.
Fellow comedians frequently describe him as “a force of nature,” a performer whose presence elevated everyone around him.
His stand-up work was notable for its range. Mulrooney could deliver quick, punchy observational humor, clever one-liners, or extended narratives that left audiences laughing for minutes.
This versatility allowed him to perform in a variety of venues—from intimate clubs to large-scale television appearances—and maintain a consistent connection with audiences. For aspiring comedians, Mulrooney’s career serves as a model for blending authenticity, discipline, and adaptability.
Friendships and Tributes from Peers
In addition to his professional achievements, Mulrooney was deeply valued for his personal qualities. Longtime friends, colleagues, and fellow entertainers frequently describe him as loyal, generous, and genuinely invested in others’ well-being.
Musicians like Steven Van Zandt spoke about their personal friendship, reflecting on Mulrooney’s warmth and enthusiasm for life.
Adam Sandler, in a 2024 interview, recalled Mulrooney’s ability to “destroy a room” while lifting up anyone around him, underscoring the unique blend of dominance and generosity he brought to every stage.
Tributes in the immediate aftermath of his passing highlighted these qualities repeatedly. Many spoke not only of his talent but also of his ability to connect with people personally.
Whether mentoring a young comedian, encouraging a radio co-host, or simply sharing a laugh with friends, Mulrooney’s presence was impactful in ways both visible and subtle.
A Life of Service and Personal Passion
Outside of performance, Mulrooney led a life characterized by service, adventure, and curiosity. His years as a police officer reflected his commitment to giving back and protecting his community, while his recreational aviation offered him a personal outlet for exploration and learning.
Mulrooney’s obituary describes him as a “proud patriot” who balanced professional accomplishment with civic duty and personal passion.
The combination of public service and entertainment demonstrates a rare balance. Many performers focus solely on career achievements, yet Mulrooney continually sought ways to leverage his platform for meaningful contribution.
His performances for first responders, in particular, illustrate how humor can be used as a tool for support, community-building, and morale—making him more than a comedian, but also a valued community ally.
A Lasting Legacy of Laughter and Connection
John Mulrooney’s passing leaves behind a remarkable legacy. He is remembered not only for the laughter he inspired but for the lives he touched through mentorship, friendship, and service. The obituary aptly noted that “his voice, his stories and his spirit will continue to echo in the lives of those he touched,” a sentiment echoed by fans and colleagues alike.
He also leaves a model for balancing diverse commitments with integrity. Whether on stage, on the radio, or serving as a police officer, Mulrooney demonstrated that one could excel professionally while giving back meaningfully. His life is a testament to dedication, versatility, and heart, providing inspiration to entertainers, first responders, and everyday people striving to make a positive impact.
Final Reflections
John Mulrooney will be remembered as much for his character as his talent. His humor, warmth, and generosity combined to create a person whose presence left a mark far beyond applause and ratings.
He brought joy to strangers, guidance to friends, inspiration to colleagues, and comfort to listeners. In every arena—comedy clubs, radio stations, community events, or police fundraisers—he was a figure who made people feel connected, entertained, and valued.
In reflecting on Mulrooney’s life, it becomes clear that his influence will endure. The laughter he inspired, the lessons he imparted, and the relationships he nurtured form a legacy that cannot be measured by awards alone. Rather, it is a life that enriched the experiences of countless people, leaving the world both funnier and kinder because he was part of it.
John Mulrooney’s story reminds us that true impact comes from a combination of talent, humility, and a willingness to use one’s gifts to uplift others. His career—spanning stand-up comedy, radio, television, and public service—reflects a life lived fully and generously, leaving behind a memory that will continue to resonate for decades.
Rest in peace, John Mulrooney. Your voice, your humor, and your spirit will echo in the hearts of all who knew you, laughed with you, and were inspired by your extraordinary life.
