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Comedian Richard Jeni Dead at 45

Posted Mar 12th 2007 12:00AM by TMZ Staff

Richard Jeni, a beloved standup comedian who was a regular on the "Tonight Show," died of a gunshot wound Saturday in Los Angeles. He was 45.

Police said yesterday, as reported by the AP, that the comic was found alive but injured after they responded to a call from Jeni's girlfriend that he had shot himself. Jeni died later in an L.A. hospital. An LAPD spokesperson said that an investigation into the death was continuing.

Besides his numerous appearances on the "Tonight Show" and on cable comedy specials including "A Big Steaming Pile of Me," Jeni acted in "The Mask" and "National Lampoon's Dad's Day Off."

Tags: Richard Jeni, RichardJeni

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76. R.I.P. Richard...great, great comedian

Posted at 10:35PM on Mar 13th 2007 by Susan Kingsley

77. The first time I saw Richard Jeni I knew he'd make it in the business. He was so clever, innovative, like George Carlin was. Those of you who think you'll be happy when you win the lottery or become a star, remember that if you're not okay with yourself, no amount of money or fame will make you feel okay. Condolences to his loved ones.

Posted at 9:35AM on Mar 13th 2007 by Evan Cummings

78. If you read his official web page (richardjenni.com) you can get the real story. He was ill but he did NOT have cancer, he was clinically depressed.

He was the only comedian who make anyone laugh about something. My husband & I have seen him several times on stage. After a show in Pittsburgh, I thanked him for making me laugh eventhough my husband was deployed. Richard sent him a text message to thank him for his service to our country. I guess that's just the kind of guy he was. He will be sorely missed. Rest well, friend

My thoughts and prayers go out to his family & friends. May we find a cure for mental illness in our lifetime.

Posted at 9:26PM on Mar 13th 2007 by michelle

79. Why does this say he was 45? he was born in 1957, he was 49.There are so many sites getting this wrong.

Posted at 2:09PM on Mar 14th 2007 by Andrea

80. I'm really curious to know what his real birthday is.. IMDB has it listed as october 30th, wikipedia has it listed as April 14th, a few people have said october 31st... It really doesn't matter, either way it's a terrible loss, but it just has me wondering why it seems that no body can get his birthday correct.

Also, when was richardjeni.com taken offline?

Posted at 2:10PM on Mar 14th 2007 by Andrea

81. Very very sad what a funny man. Depression is a HORRIBLE HORRIBLE THING! Hope your at peace now.

Posted at 2:09PM on Mar 14th 2007 by me

82. Heard the sad news today, thought that it was a mistake I wish it was. Richard Jeni was a very funny and talented comic and will be missed, I believe xm comedy is having a special tonight (3.14.07) @ 9 p.m. so listen and laugh just the way he would want it......

Posted at 8:26PM on Mar 14th 2007 by Mr. Malcolm

83. its crazy that a guy can make others laugh so much and inside hes so depressed he'll kill himself with a shotgun

Posted at 5:27PM on Mar 22nd 2007 by s luke

84. met rick jenni in south hampton in the 80s He was so fun. we kept in touch for a while. he was so down to earth and sincere. I was so happy he made it. sorry to his family. I will be praying for his soul. RIP

Posted at 4:36AM on Apr 1st 2007 by peggy

85. Mr. Jenni was a very funny individual whom I enjoyed very much. But, to kill yourself ??? My thoughts & prayers are with his family - not for Mr. Jenni.

Posted at 2:20PM on Apr 10th 2007 by Judy

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