Many comedy fans will recognize Gallagher, a beloved prop comedian who became incredibly popular for his routines which included smashing watermelons. Sadly, it’s been revealed that Gallagher – born Leo Anthony Gallagher Jr. – has died at age 76.
This news comes via Variety, where his former manager Craig Marquardo confirmed that Gallagher died of organ failure on Friday. It was further stated that he “had been in hospice care in California after suffering multiple heart attacks in recent years.” This is no doubt devastating news as he had led an incredible career as a comedian across the last four decades. This essentially began in 1980 with “An Uncensored Evening,” which is known as the first standup comedy special to ever air on Showtime.
As mentioned above, his “signature bit” included his sledgehammer known as the “Sledge-O-Matic.” This prop was used to smash food on stage which would spray onto the surrounding audience. Of course, watermelons were his food of choice for smashing and quickly became a key part of his career. He was also well-known for his “witty wordplay and sharp observational comedy.”
It was also noted that Gallagher managed to continue touring “on the road in America for nearly four decades, touring steadily up until the COVID-19 pandemic and playing over 3,500 live shows throughout his career.” Additionally, he also managed to lead “a long-running Geico commercial and appeared in his first movie, ‘The Book of Daniel.'” This was followed by his “farewell tour dubbed the ‘Last Smash.'”
In more recent times, he faced accusations of both racism and homophobia in his various acts over the years. And, as a result, several venues even canceled his shows due to the controversy. But as Variety notes in a statement from his former agent, “While Gallagher had his detractors, he was an undeniable talent and an American success story.”