Tom Dreesen, a veteran comedian whose career spanned over five decades and included a significant 13-year tenure as the opening act for the legendary Frank Sinatra, passed away on Wednesday, June 17, at the age of 86. His death was confirmed by a family spokesperson to The Hollywood Reporter, with his passing occurring at his home in Los Angeles. The cause of death was not immediately disclosed.
Born September 11, 1939, in Harvey, Illinois, Dreesen’s journey into the world of entertainment began in humble circumstances. He recounted in his autobiography, Still Standing, that his early days involved shining shoes in the dimly lit saloons of Chicago’s south side. This foundational experience of observing and interacting with diverse crowds undoubtedly shaped his keen understanding of human nature, a skill that would later become the bedrock of his successful stand-up career.
Dreesen’s comedic prowess was not confined to small clubs. He graced national television screens on over 500 occasions, bringing his signature brand of humor to millions of viewers. His career trajectory saw him become a regular fixture in the entertainment circuits of Las Vegas, Tahoe, Reno, and Atlantic City, where he honed his craft by warming up audiences for an array of esteemed artists, including Smokey Robinson, Liza Minnelli, and Sammy Davis Jr. These experiences provided him with invaluable exposure and a deep well of anecdotes that would later populate his acclaimed routines and his autobiography.
However, it was his extensive work with Frank Sinatra that cemented Dreesen’s place in entertainment history and provided him with some of his most cherished and enduring material. For thirteen years, he was the trusted opener for "Ol’ Blue Eyes," a period that fostered a deep and lasting friendship between the two performers. This unique vantage point allowed Dreesen to witness firsthand the twilight years of one of the 20th century’s most iconic voices.
A Friendship Forged on the Road
The bond between Dreesen and Sinatra transcended the professional. Dreesen often spoke of Sinatra with immense respect and affection, frequently sharing intimate stories that illuminated the human side of the legendary crooner. One particularly poignant anecdote, recounted by Dreesen during an interview at the Laugh Factory in Los Angeles, illustrated the profound connection Sinatra had with his audience and the unexpected moments that could occur during a live performance.
During a massive arena concert, Dreesen had just finished his opening set to a receptive crowd. Sinatra then took the stage and delivered a powerful rendition of his initial songs. However, during the fourth song, Sinatra experienced a momentary lapse, completely forgetting the lyrics. The orchestra, unaware of his predicament, continued to play. In that tense silence, Sinatra, a figure accustomed to commanding attention, began to whisper apologies into the microphone.
"I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I’m sorry," Dreesen recalled Sinatra saying.
It was at this critical juncture that the power of the audience became evident. A lone voice from the upper echelons of the arena called out, "That’s all right, Frank! It’s all right because we love you!" This sentiment was met with immediate applause, which rapidly spread through the venue, transforming a potentially disastrous moment into a testament to Sinatra’s enduring popularity and the deep affection his fans held for him. Dreesen described how the eruption of applause and cheers revitalized Sinatra, who then launched into a flawless performance of "Mack the Knife," delivering it with the passion and precision of his youth. This event, Dreesen noted, was a powerful illustration of the symbiotic relationship between an artist and their devoted following.
Dreesen’s proximity to Sinatra also allowed him to serve as a pallbearer at the singer’s funeral on May 14, 1998, and he continued to honor Sinatra’s legacy for years by hosting the annual Frank Sinatra Celebrity Invitational Black Tie Gala.
Addressing Lingering Questions
The close association with Sinatra also brought Dreesen into discussions surrounding Sinatra’s alleged connections to organized crime. In an interview shared on his YouTube channel, Dreesen addressed these persistent rumors. "The interesting thing about Frank Sinatra," he stated, "aside from his enormous talent as an actor, aside from his enormous talent as a singer, aside from all these things, he had that mystique. Was he in the mob? Was he connected to the mob? They’re constantly showing pictures of him with the mob. Did he know those guys?"
Dreesen, paraphrasing Sinatra’s own perspective, explained that while Sinatra undoubtedly met many individuals who were associated with the mob, he did not necessarily "know them" in a deep, personal sense. This nuanced perspective offered by someone who knew Sinatra well provided a more humanizing view of the complex figure.
A Career Beyond Sinatra
While his association with Sinatra was a significant chapter, Dreesen’s career was multifaceted and impactful in its own right. He was a champion for his fellow comedians, notably advocating for fair remuneration for performers at The Comedy Store. Furthermore, he broke barriers by forming a trailblazing interracial comedy act with Tim Reid, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and artistic collaboration long before it became commonplace.
The impact of Dreesen’s career and his warm personality resonated deeply within the comedy community. David Letterman, former host of Late Night, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. "Tom was the first comedian I met at Comedy Store in 1975," Letterman remarked. "We became friends immediately. He had wisdom and endless stories. Everyone admired him, looked up to him and wondered if he ever stopped talking. He never did, he never will. We love him for that. We’ll miss the stories. God bless you Tom." This sentiment was echoed by many who knew Dreesen, highlighting his generosity of spirit and his enduring presence in the lives of his colleagues.
Dreesen’s passing marks the end of an era for a performer who not only entertained millions but also navigated the complexities of Hollywood with grace and integrity. His ability to connect with audiences, his insightful storytelling, and his unwavering dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark on the landscape of American entertainment. His legacy will continue to live on through his recorded performances, his autobiography, and the countless memories he created for those who had the privilege of knowing him or experiencing his unique brand of humor.
The official announcement of his passing came via a Facebook post from his family: "My sister and I regret to inform you that our father passed away at 5:50 this morning. He wanted you all to know how much joy you brought him through the years. He said to tell you that he loved you all. May he rest in peace." This poignant message encapsulates the gratitude and affection Dreesen felt for his fans, a feeling that was clearly reciprocated throughout his long and distinguished career.
