Perry Kurtz, a long-time stand-up comedian known for TV appearances, died on Thursday following a hit-and-run crash in Los Angeles. He was 73 years old. The Los Angeles Police Department reported that Kurtz was hit by a Honda Civic around 11:20 p.m. in the Tarzana neighborhood while crossing Ventura Boulevard outside of a crosswalk.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed Kurtz’s death was caused by blunt force injuries from the collision. His daughter Zelda Velazquez also spoke to the New York Times to confirm his passing. Police arrested 18-year-old Nathan Jaimes from nearby Reseda at his home in connection with the fatal crash. Jaimes now faces felony charges for leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death. Authorities have not commented on possible factors like speeding, drugs or alcohol that could have played a role in the incident.
Originally from Philadelphia, Kurtz spent decades in the comedy industry. He lived in San Francisco in the 1980s touring across North America before moving to Los Angeles in 1989. There, he became a regular performer at the renowned Comedy Store venue in Hollywood. His name now hangs on the club’s sign in recognition of his impact. In a 2022 interview, Kurtz said “I am a full-time, working comedian. I’ve never had a day job and have only made money making people laugh.”
This dedication was shown through Kurtz’s numerous TV appearances over the years. He gained national exposure in 2006 by auditioning for “America’s Got Talent” with a rap about the judges. While it didn’t advance him, it showed his unique style. Kurtz later performed on “The Tonight Show” in 2014 and “The Late Late Show” in 2018. Local witnesses reported he also regularly performed at a nearby restaurant every Thursday night. His unexpected passing has profoundly saddened the comedy world and his many fans.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by Kurtz’s family to help cover funeral costs. This tragic event underscores the dangers faced by pedestrians in busy urban areas and the harmful consequences of hit-and-runs. Perry Kurtz leaves behind a lasting legacy through his decades spent humoring audiences on stages and television screens across America with his gift for comedy.
