Comedian and ‘Happy Gilmore’ Actor Joe Flaherty Dies at 82

Prominent actor and comedian Joe Flaherty passed away at the age of 82, following a brief period of illness.

Tuesday, his daughter verified his passing, as reported by The Daily Caller.

According to reports, Flaherty's most recognizable roles include that of Harold Weir in the NBC comedy series "Freaks and Geeks," and of the character he portrayed opposite Adam Sandler in "Happy Gilmore."

Response to his Passing

As soon as word of his sudden passing spread, colleagues, friends, and family members took to social media to offer condolences to the cherished actor.

“No one could have played the role of Donald like Joe Flaherty did,” Shooter McGavin wrote on Twitter. McGavin continued, saying, “His comedic delivery was perfect and his role alone made Happy Gilmore the classic it is today. He will be missed. Rest easy Joe.”

According to Global News, Flaherty served in the United States Air Force before embarking on a career in comedy.

It has been reported that he was admitted into the Second City Theatre troupe in Chicago before relocating to Toronto and contributing to the formation of the Toronto Second City Theatre troupe.

The source claims that he rose to prominence in televised comedies during the 1990s after making his debut at Second City Television (SCTV). Reportedly, he maintained a recurring role on the sitcom "Maniac Mansion" and appeared in the reboot of "Police Academy."

More Word of Note

Flaherty’s noteworthy work included “Clone High,” “Family Guy,” “Big Bang Theory” and “The Kings of Queens."

Flaherty, renowned for his intelligence and remarkable sense of humor, relocated to Toronto to instruct aspiring comedians at Humber College in comedic writing. Reportedly, he was a member of the program's advisory committee as well.

Constant outpouring of condolences and tributes has been received, with Colin Mochrie saying he was “incredibly fortunate to have worked with. My deepest condolences to his family and friends."

For his part, John Francis Daley said the late comedian caused him to “crack up so hard it ruined takes.”