Tom Dreesen, a legendary stand-up comedian who made appearances on numerous late-night shows and opened for iconic musicians, has died at the age of 86, PEOPLE reports.
The news was shared by Dreesen’s family in a statement to the outlet.
“For more than five decades, Tom Dreesen brought laughter, heart, and humanity to audiences across America. A proud native of Harvey, Illinois, Tom built a remarkable career through perseverance, talent,” they wrote.
“Beyond the stage, Tom was a devoted father, brother, grandfather, friend, mentor, storyteller, and motivator,” the statement added. “He gave generously of his time, supported countless charitable causes, and inspired others through his motivational speaking, his writing, and his personal example.”
After serving in the U.S. Navy, Dreesen went to work as an insurance salesman, where he met Tim Reid, and they formed a comedy team. From there, his career took off, with Dreesen making over 500 appearances on national television, including appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, The Late Show with David Letterman, and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, while also filling in as a guest host on The Late Show. Dreesen also served as the opening act for famous musicians on tour, including Smokey Robinson, Tony Orlando, Gladys Knight, Liza Minnelli, Frank Sinatra, and Sammy Davis Jr.
As for his career on television, he appeared in shows including Murder, She Wrote, Columbo, Touched by an Angel, as well as having a role in Mel Brooks’ 1987 film Spaceballs.
“Tom Dreesen’s legacy will live on through the laughter he created, the barriers he helped break, the entertainers he inspired, and the countless lives he touched,” the statement concluded, with the family asking for privacy at this time and thanking fans for their “heartfelt condolences.”
Actor Gary Sinise shared a heartfelt tribute to the actor following the news.
“This morning America lost one of our great comedians and patriots, and I lost a dear friend,” Sinise wrote on X, adding that Dreesen was “hilarious, always could make us laugh, and such a good friend.
“I will miss him terribly. What a great long career he had in show business,” he concluded. “Thank you, Tom. God Bless you my friend. Rest in Peace brother.”