Renowned stand-up comedian, Shecky Greene, known for his long and illustrious career in Las Vegas and his collaborations with Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, passed away on December 31, at the age of 97, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

During the 1960s and '70s, Greene became a regular on TV talk shows and guest star circuits, captivating audiences with his distinctive bowl haircut and wide-lapel leisure suits. He became synonymous with the classic fast-talking comedian in a tuxedo, delivering light-hearted risqué anecdotes, zingers, and one-liners on stage.

One of the highlights of his career was his multiple appearances on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson," where he even served as a guest host on several occasions. He also had the privilege of opening for Sinatra in Miami and Presley in Las Vegas, showcasing his comedic talents to adoring audiences. Greene's television credits include popular shows such as "Combat," "Love, American Style," "The Love Boat," "Fantasy Island," "Laverne & Shirley," "The Fall Guy," "The A-Team," "Trapper John, MD," "Roseanne," and "Mad About You." Furthermore, he made notable appearances in films like "Splash," Mel Brooks' "History of the World: Part I," and "Tony Rome."

Greene, hailing from the Chicago area, began his comedy career while attending college in Milwaukee. He caught the attention of Martha Raye, who recruited him to perform at her nightclub in Miami. Afterwards, he returned to Chicago and gained fame for his performances at the renowned Chez Paree nightclub.

Sadly, as his career progressed, Greene publicly struggled with mental health and substance abuse problems. In 1968, he made headlines when he drunkenly drove his Oldsmobile into one of the fountains outside Caesars Palace.

Having called Las Vegas home since the 1950s, Greene had a deep association with the city. He first performed at the New Frontier casino in 1954 alongside singer Dorothy Shay. Greene's affiliation with Las Vegas endured throughout the years, with his last performances in the city occurring in 2011.

In 1978, Greene celebrated a significant milestone in his career by taking out a full-page ad in Variety. The advertisement commemorated his lucrative new contract with Las Vegas' Sands Hotel and Casino. In the ad, he expressed his gratitude for reaching the pinnacle of his profession after 30 years of perseverance, triumphs, failures, and unforgettable experiences in the nightclub scene.

Shecky Greene leaves behind a remarkable legacy as one of the greatest comedians to grace the Las Vegas stage. His wit, charm, and unmistakable style will forever be remembered by fans and peers alike.