John Pinette, a much-loved stand-up comedian renowned for his relatable humor and memorable role in the Seinfeld finale, sadly passed away at the age of 50. News of his death on Saturday reached fans and the comedy world on April 6, 2014, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and warmth. His manager, Larry Schapiro, confirmed the passing to The Hollywood Reporter, marking a somber moment for those who appreciated his comedic talent.
Pinette was discovered in a Pittsburgh hotel room, and the Allegheny County medical examiner’s office in Pennsylvania reported his death as due to natural causes. Schapiro later clarified that a pulmonary embolism was the specific cause. Born in Boston in 1964, John Pinette had established himself as a prominent figure in the comedy circuit. He was actively touring at the time of his death, with performances scheduled across the United States and Canada from April to June, showcasing his enduring appeal to live audiences.
Beyond stand-up, John Pinette’s versatility extended into film and television. He appeared in movies such as Junior (1994), The Punisher (2004), and The Last Godfather (2010), demonstrating his range as a performer. Comedy enthusiasts particularly cherished his stand-up specials, including Still Hungry (2011) and I’m Starvin’ (2006), which highlighted his engaging stage presence and observational comedy. Adding another dimension to his career, Pinette hosted All You Can Eat, a comedy cooking show on H2 that aired in September 2013, further showcasing his ability to blend humor with diverse formats. His consistent presence at Canada’s Just for Laughs festival also solidified his international recognition within the comedy scene.
In a notable theatrical role, John Pinette took on the character of Edna Turnblad in the national touring production of Hairspray in 2004, revealing his talent for embracing diverse performance styles. Television audiences also recognized him from series like Vinnie & Bobby, Parker Lewis Can’t Lose, and High Tide. However, for many, his most iconic television appearance remained his role in the Seinfeld finale in 1998. In this episode, Pinette played a victim of robbery and car theft, comically reacting to the indifference of Jerry, Elaine, George, and Kramer as they observed the incident while making jokes – a testament to his comedic timing even in brief appearances.
The outpouring of tributes from fellow comedians and industry personalities following John Pinette’s death underscored the high regard in which he was held. Lewis Black remembered him as “a funny fuck and a sweet heap of a man,” hoping for a “buffet out there” in his honor. Judah Friedlander described him as a “really nice person” and a “funny guy.” Andrew Stanton fondly recalled him as a “hilarious Boston comic.” Lizz Winstead noted his kindness and humor, lamenting that he left “too soon.” Rob Delaney shared that he had been listening to Pinette’s comedy just days before the news. Larry The Cable Guy expressed deep sadness at losing a “great comedian and buddy,” emphasizing how Pinette “never failed to make us cry laughing.” Caroline Rhea reflected on the joy of working with someone “as kind as he was funny.” Russell Peters called him “an extremely funny guy and a great human.” Bob Saget simply stated, “John Pinette. Funny man. Kind man. Rest in peace.” Mike Birbiglia shared poignant advice received from Pinette: “The jokes are good, just put ’em together.” Jim Gaffigan remembered him as “funny, generous and so kind.” These heartfelt messages collectively painted a picture of a comedian who was not only exceptionally talented but also genuinely cherished by his peers.
John Pinette’s untimely passing was a significant loss to the comedy world. His ability to connect with audiences through observational humor, his memorable characters, and his warm personality cemented his place as a beloved comedian. He is deeply missed, but his comedic legacy continues to bring laughter and fond memories to those who knew his work.
