Comedian David Brenner Dies at 78
Comedian David Brenner, a staple of Johnny Carson’s “Tonight Show” in the 1970s and ’80s who was known for his observational humor, died Saturday at his home in New York City. He was 78.
Brenner’s death was confirmed by his publicist, Jeff Abraham.
The gangly, toothy comic made more than 150 appearances as a guest and substitute host on “The Tonight Show,” starting in the 1970s.
His “Tonight” exposure turned the former documentary filmmaker into a hot comedian. Brenner was a regular on other TV talk shows and game shows and starred in four HBO comedy specials. He also briefly hosted his own syndicated talk show in 1987.
In recent years, Brenner continued to work steadily doing standup shows. A four-day gig last December included a New Year’s Eve show at a casino-resort in King of Prussia, Pa.
Comedian Richard Lewis called Brenner a mentor who even loaned him money to quit his day job in order to pursue a career in comedy.
“David Brenner was a huge star when I met him and he took me under his wing,” Lewis said. “To me, historically, he was the godfather of ‘hip, observational comedy.’ He mentored me from day one. He was family to me in the deepest, most supportive sense. His passing leaves a hole in my life that can never be replaced.”
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