Comedian and former Late Show host John Mulrooney dies at 67
Adam Sandler’s emotional tribute
Even late into his career, Mulrooney never stopped performing. Just months ago, in May 2025, he shared the stage with Colin Quinn and Aidan O’Kelley at the Craic Comedy Fest in Astoria.
Tributes quickly poured in from friends, fans, and fellow comedians. In a 2024 episode of Joe Rogan’s podcast, Adam Sandler reflected on their early days in comedy, calling Mulrooney a force of nature.
“I remember Mulrooney would just destroy a room,” Sandler said. “He was so loose and would dominate the room, and then they’d bring you up, and you’re like, ‘Oh, goodness gracious.’”
Outside of entertainment, Mulrooney lived a life of service. He spent 14 years as a police officer, from 2010 to 2024, while continuing to perform comedy — often for first responder communities across the country. He was also a longtime radio host and a recreational pilot, according to his obituary.
That obituary described him as a “beloved stand-up comedian, dedicated public servant, and proud patriot whose life was defined by service, laughter and an unwavering devotion to the people he loved.”
Steven Van Zandt told the Times Union that the news hadn’t fully sunk in.
Mulrooney and Van Zandt first crossed paths years ago, when both men were launching their own morning radio shows and quickly built a lasting friendship.
“To talk to somebody less than two weeks ago, and he had mentioned what he was doing for Christmas, and he was looking forward to 2026 because he had a pretty full calendar,” Van Zandt said. “It’s all so unexpected. It’s still sinking in.”
The obituary added:
“John Mulrooney will be remembered as much for being a loyal friend to countless people as for the laughter he brought to a multitude of strangers. His voice, his stories and his spirit will continue to echo in the lives of those he touched.”
”He became a sought-after performer for police and fire department fundraisers across the country, using comedy to support first responders and the communities they protect”.
John Mulrooney is survived by the legacy of laughter he left behind — and by countless people who say comedy, radio, and even their own lives were better because he was part of them.
