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People like Martin Scorsese and Paul Feig have described Flaherty as “charming,” “a real sweetheart,” and “very funny.”
Some of the biggest names in comedy include Joe Flaherty.
Following the news that Flaherty, best known for his work on the sketch shows SCTV and Freaks & Geeks, had died at the age of 82, comedians including Adam Sandler and Martin Short shared their condolences and fond memories of Flaherty during his life and career.
Flaherty’s daughter, Gudrun, confirmed his death in a statement to The New York Times, saying he died Monday after a “brief illness.” “Since then, I have been struggling to come to terms with this terrible loss,” she told the outlet. “My father was a remarkable man, known for his boundless heart and unwavering passion for the films of the 1940s and 1950s.”
“Over the past few months, while he has been facing his health challenges, we have had the precious opportunity to watch many of those classic films together – moments that I will cherish forever,” added Gudrun.
Last February, Short, Flaherty’s former SCTV colleague, shared a note saying the actor was “very ill” and “realized the severity of his declining health.” As such, Short asked fans to donate what they can to cover the cost of care so that Flaherty can “spend the rest of her life at home instead of at a facility.”
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Here’s what several of Flaherty’s friends and fellow comedians had to say after the news of his death:
Adam Sandler
Adam Sandler shared his grief following the news of Flaherty’s death, sharing a collection of photos of the late comedian. “Man. He idolized Joe growing up,” Sandler wrote. “My brother and I always laughed. Count Floyd, Jay Caballero. Any move he made. He was crushed as a border guard in stripes. It couldn’t have been funnier to harass him on the golf course.
“The nicest guy you’ll ever know,” he continued, “a talented comedian.” “And a true lover. Perfect combo. Much love to his children and thanks to Joe for all the greatness he has given us all.
Martin Short
Following news of his death, Short paid tribute to his friend in a statement to Rolling Stone magazine, calling him “the funniest guy in the house”.
“In our 50-plus years of friendship, few people have been as knowledgeable or funny in the art of comedy, teaching improvisation and creating character as Joe,” Short said. “At SCTV we called him the anchor. In life, he was just the funniest guy in the room. I just adored him.”
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Martin Scorsese
Another celebrity shared his condolences for Martin Flaherty: Scorsese said he had the “opportunity to meet” Flaherty several times, and praised his discipline, calling him “a true master of his craft.”
“I wish I could express my admiration and love for his work on SCTV and beyond,” he wrote in a statement to Rolling Stone magazine. “I’ve always been drawn to comedians and comedians – they have to be disciplined, committed and practiced.”
“It’s no exaggeration to say they must have been great. Joe was great, a true master of his craft,” he added.
Jennifer Tilly
Tilly similarly shared a “TV dad” message, referring to their roles in The Wrong Man.
“I was thrilled to work with her. Her performance was perfect,” he wrote. “Great comedian. “He’s gone too soon.”
He also retweeted a fan account posting a scene from 1997 featuring the two.
Judd Apatow
Apatow described Flaherty’s presence on set as “magical”.
“We were always so excited. We couldn’t believe he was part of Freaks and Geeks,” wrote Apatow, who created and executive produced the show. Very well.”
“Joe was the nicest guy, an amazing actor and the GOAT of comedy. Every moment with him was a treasure,” she added.
