John Mulrooney, a veteran stand-up comedian and longtime radio personality who briefly hosted The Late Show in the late 1980s, has died at the age of 67. According to the Albany Times Union, Mulrooney passed away unexpectedly in late December 2025 at his home in Coxsackie, New York. Friends and colleagues said he had been active and making future plans just weeks before his death.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, Mulrooney emerged from New York’s highly competitive comedy scene during the 1980s. He performed at well-known clubs such as Dangerfield’s and Sheepshead Bay, later expanding to major venues including The Improv and The Laugh Factory. His sharp wit, confident delivery, and fearless humor quickly earned him national attention.
In 1987, Mulrooney reached a career milestone when he briefly served as host of The Late Show, placing him among a small group of comedians to step into late-night television during a transformative era for the genre. He went on to make numerous television appearances, compete on game shows, and develop a sitcom, showcasing his versatility beyond stand-up.
As his career evolved, Mulrooney became a familiar voice on radio. He co-hosted popular morning shows across the East Coast and was widely praised for his chemistry with co-hosts and his candid, engaging on-air style. Even while focusing on radio, he continued performing stand-up comedy into 2025, often appearing at festivals and charity events, including shows supporting first responders.
Following news of his passing, tributes poured in from across the entertainment world. Actor and comedian Adam Sandler, speaking on The Joe Rogan Experience, recalled Mulrooney’s commanding presence on stage and the respect he commanded among fellow comics.
Outside of entertainment, Mulrooney also served as a police officer, balancing public service with a decades-long career in comedy and broadcasting. Those who knew him personally remembered him as generous, loyal, and deeply committed to both his craft and his community.
John Mulrooney leaves behind a legacy defined by reinvention, authenticity, and a lasting impact on comedy, radio, and late-night television.