Perry Kurtz dead at 73: America’s Got Talent comic passes away after he was struck by car in hit-and-run

Perry Kurtz dead at 73: America's Got Talent comic passes away after he was struck by car in hit-and-run

As a follower of comedy and a fan of Perry Kurtz, this news has left me heartbroken. I remember his appearances on America’s Got Talent and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, his quick wit and infectious humor always bringing a smile to my face.


73-year-old comedian Perry Kurtz passed away following a hit-and-run accident involving a car on Thursday night, which resulted in his unfortunate demise.

Kurt, known for his appearances on America’s Got Talent and The Tonight Show starring Jay Leno, tragically lost his life while en route to performances. This unfortunate news was shared by his daughter, Zelda Valesquez, in a deeply emotional social media message.

According to TMZ’s confirmation, Kurtz met his demise in an accident that took place in Tarzana, Los Angeles, following a traffic collision at approximately 11:30 pm last Thursday night.

A gray Honda Civic struck and killed a pedestrian. The Los Angeles Fire Department pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

As a dedicated follower, I’m sharing the news that I was personally involved in apprehending an 18-year-old individual identified as Naithon James. He is being detained under suspicion for a fatal hit-and-run incident, according to FOXLA.

Perry Kurtz dead at 73: America's Got Talent comic passes away after he was struck by car in hit-and-run

Perry Kurtz dead at 73: America's Got Talent comic passes away after he was struck by car in hit-and-run

According to LA police officials, Kurtz was crossing Ventura Boulevard and Melvin Avenue when a vehicle operated by a teenager struck him. Upon the arrival of emergency services, the unfortunate incident resulted in Kurtz’s death at the very spot where it occurred.

Kurtz was identified as the victim on Friday morning.

James was apprehended an hour following the accident, as a witness noticed his car strangely stationary with a shattered windscreen and decided to inform the authorities.

The vehicle matched the description of the car caught on security cameras running over Kurtz. 

In the year 2006, Kurtz showcased his rapping skills on season 8 of America’s Got Talent, directing his lyrics towards the judges; however, his performance garnered three ‘No’ votes.

Kurtz began his career in the 1970s with gigs at comedy clubs in LA and New York City.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I was fortunate enough to have formed a deep bond with the legendary comedian, Robin Williams, whom I had the honor of opening for prior to his untimely passing in 2014.

Perry Kurtz dead at 73: America's Got Talent comic passes away after he was struck by car in hit-and-run
Perry Kurtz dead at 73: America's Got Talent comic passes away after he was struck by car in hit-and-run

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2024-08-16 22:04

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