The world lost a comedy legend on December 26th, as Dick Capri, beloved comedian and actor, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 93. After spending a special Christmas with his family, the funnyman succumbed to complications from a bleeding enlarged aorta, a condition that was deemed inoperable due to his age.
In a touching statement to TMZ, Dick’s son, Jeff, shared, “The world is not as funny today as it was yesterday.” Dick had known his time was coming, and he faced it with his signature humor and grace. Just hours before his passing, he enjoyed a meal from his favorite restaurant, FaceTimed with loved ones, and spent quality time with his son, daughter-in-law, and life partner.
Born Richard Crupi in Reading, Pennsylvania, Dick Capri made a name for himself in the ’60s, performing on iconic shows like The Ed Sullivan Show and The Merv Griffin Show. His comedic journey took him on tours with music legends like Englebert Humperdinck and performing at Radio City Music Hall. Along the way, he worked with some of the biggest stars, including Frank Sinatra, Liza Minelli, and Tom Jones. He even had the honor of entertaining Presidents Gerald Ford and George Bush.
Dick also made his mark on film and Broadway, with roles in They Still Call Me Bruce and Catskills on Broadway. He will be remembered not just for his humor, but for the joy he brought to every stage he graced.