In a devastating incident, Perry Kurtz, a renowned stand-up comedian who delighted audiences for decades, tragically passed away on Thursday night in a hit-and-run incident in Los Angeles. The 73-year-old performer, famous for his appearances on popular shows like "America's Got Talent" and "The Late Late Show With James Corden," had become a familiar face in comedy institutions before his untimely demise.

The news of Perry Kurtz's death was confirmed by his daughter, Zelda Velazquez, who expressed her deep sorrow over the loss. According to authorities, Mr. Kurtz was crossing Ventura Boulevard when he was struck by a car. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver responsible for the hit-and-run was later apprehended by law enforcement.

Having honed his comedic skills over several decades, Perry Kurtz had established himself as a prominent figure within the comedy circuit. Although he rose to national fame with his appearance on "America's Got Talent" in 2013, his rap performance wearing a gleaming silver suit did not impress the judges, resulting in his elimination. Nevertheless, this quirky and campy persona became an integral part of Mr. Kurtz's comedic style.

In 2018, Perry Kurtz made a memorable appearance on "The Late Late Show With James Corden," captivating the audience with his unique performance. Dressed in thick suspenders and a Hawaiian shirt, he wowed the crowd by playing "Louie Louie" with his tongue on a keytar. These acts showcased his versatility and a flair for entertaining.

Born on February 5, 1951, and raised in Philadelphia, Perry Kurtz developed a passion for comedy from an early age. He credited laughter for its ability to diffuse tense situations, recalling how a childhood joke helped him realize the power of humor. In 1973, he won $250 with his act at a talent show in New Jersey, sparking his decision to pursue comedy as a full-time career.

Throughout the 1980s, Perry Kurtz relentlessly toured comedy clubs across the United States, averaging an impressive 45 weeks per year on the stage. His talent caught the attention of comedy icons such as Milton Berle and Rodney Dangerfield, who became mentors and facilitated his rise in the industry. With Dangerfield flying him to New York and Berle assisting him in securing an audition at the prestigious Comedy Store on Sunset Boulevard in 1989, Mr. Kurtz's trajectory reached new heights.

Achieving the status of a paid regular performer, Perry Kurtz's name proudly adorned the wall of the Comedy Store, solidifying his place among the comedy elite. He relocated to Los Angeles in the same year, where he found love through a dating site, meeting his future wife. Along his journey, he received encouraging words from the likes of Don Rickles and Johnny Carson, further validating his talent and potential.

As he embraced fatherhood after the birth of his daughter in 2004, Perry Kurtz began to perform closer to home, including shows for seniors and maintaining an online presence during the challenging times of the pandemic. In his later years, he also shared his expertise by teaching comedy classes, emphasizing the art of connecting with audiences while remaining inoffensive.

Reflecting on his comedic aspirations, Perry Kurtz expressed his desire to make the world laugh at least once, if not twice. His legacy as a seasoned comedian and his ability to bring joy to countless individuals will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of witnessing his talent.

The loss of Perry Kurtz serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life, leaving the comedy community and his fans mourning the untimely passing of a beloved entertainer. May his memory and contributions continue to bring joy and laughter to those he leaves behind.