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Comedian James Gregory, ‘The Funniest Man in America,’ Dead at 78

CultureCelebs
By Caitlin Berard
May 12, 2024 | 8:37 a.m. CDT
Comedian James Gregory The Funniest Man in America Dead at 78
Photo via CabaRay Nashville / YouTube

James Gregory, known to his many fans as “The Funniest Man in America,” has died at 78. The renowned comedian passed away in his adopted hometown of Chattanooga, Tennessee, after suffering cardiac arrest.

The Gregory family confirmed his passing via his official Facebook page. Their statement reads:

“Today, with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of the Funniest Man in America, comedian James Gregory. He brought laughter and joy to countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on the world of comedy and those who loved him.”

“James’ three nieces who referred to him as ‘Uncle Bubba,’ Martha Anne, Mary Jane, and Candie, along with their families, were instrumental in caring for him through his last days and weeks. The family asks for privacy at this time.”

Though no doubt known to his family as a source of hilarity from childhood, James Gregory got a late start in the world of professional comedy. In 1981, he began introducing performers at The Punch Line comedy club in Atlanta at the age of 36.

After getting his start in the South, Gregory began traveling countrywide, performing his stand-up comedy routine for countless fans over the next four decades.

Fans and Colleagues Pay Tribute to James Gregory

Following news of James Gregory’s passing, fans and fellow comics took to social media to pay their respects to the late legend.

“I’m very sad to hear about the passing of James Gregory,” Carrot Top wrote. “He was not only the funniest man in America.. but he was a genuine comic and dear generous man. I would sit in the back of the club and just watch and learn. He really was the best! He was truly one of the masters of the craft!”

“Very sad to hear my old pal James Gregory passed,” comedian Kathleen Madigan said. “He did comedy before there were comedy clubs. That took guts. He was the South comin at full force. Love to his family. Xo”