Comedy Store’s co-founder dies

Aworld-renowned stand-up comedian, who spent years warming up crowds for Elvis Presley, has died at the age of 92.

Sammy Shore first stood in the spotlight in the 1960s, telling jokes to resort guests in the Catskills area of New York in a double-act with Shecky Greene.

He quickly made a name for himself, bringing audiences to tears with his humorous sets and, in 1969, was asked to open for Elvis Presley.

Shore warmed up the crowds for the star for three years and also opened for the likes of Barbra Streisand, Tom Jones

and Tony Bennett. Looking for another project, Shore went on to co-found The Comedy Store in Hollywood with his writing partner Rudy Deluca in 1972.

As a result of a divorce settlement, Shore’s ex-wife Mitzi took over the running of the venue in 1973, vowing to invest in new talent as well as the dayto-day running of it.

Still popular today, The Comedy Store has helped launch the careers of scores of entertainers – including Tim Allen, Whoopi Goldberg, Robin Williams and Eddie Murphy.

Shore’s son Pauly also got his start at the venue and the pair regularly toured together at clubs across the US.

Mr Shore jun paid tribute on social media, writing: “When bringing me on stage he always gave me the most professional and respectful introduction.

“He would say: ‘Ladies and gentlemen, I’ve opened for Elvis Presley and Sammy Davis Jr, but tonight I’m opening for my favourite entertainer.’

“Sister Sledge’s We Are Family would blare through the speakers, and dad and I would dance around on stage like silly kids.”

He added: “Those 20 years were some of the best times my dad and I ever had in our lives. I’m so happy I was able to experience them with him.

“Dad, you lived an amazing life and I’m so proud to say that you are my father.”

Shore died of natural causes and is survived by his wife of 29 years, Suzanne, children and grandchildren.

A spokesman from The Comedy Store said: “Words can’t express how much his comedic gift, friendship, and beneficence will be missed.

“The bright light he shone and the laughter he brought into the lives of everyone he touched will never dim.”