Don Rickles Last Words: The Final Joke Of The King Of Comedy

Bernard Kerluke 21 May 2025

When Don Rickles passed away, the world lost one of its greatest comedians. Known as "Mr. Warmth," he left behind a legacy of laughter and unforgettable performances. But what were Don Rickles last words? This question has intrigued fans and comedy enthusiasts alike, and today we'll dive deep into the story behind his final moments. So grab your popcorn, because this is going to be one heck of a ride!

Don Rickles wasn't just any comedian; he was a legend. A guy who could make you laugh so hard you'd cry. But like all great stories, his journey had to come to an end. And it's only natural that people are curious about how it all wrapped up. Was his last joke as sharp as his best ones? Did he go out with a bang? Let's find out!

In this article, we're going to explore Don Rickles' life, career, and of course, his last words. We'll look at what those final moments meant to his fans and how they reflect his larger-than-life personality. So, buckle up and get ready to learn something new about the guy who made us laugh for decades!

Biography of Don Rickles
Early Life and Career
Don Rickles' Comedy Style
The Legacy of Don Rickles
Don Rickles Last Words
The Impact of His Final Words
Don Rickles' Funeral
Tributes from Fellow Comedians
How Fans Reacted
Conclusion

Biography of Don Rickles

Before we dive into Don Rickles last words, let's take a moment to appreciate the man behind the jokes. Born on May 8, 1926, in Queens, New York, Don Rickles was more than just a comedian—he was a cultural icon. Below is a quick look at his life:

Quick Facts About Don Rickles

Full Name	Donald Jay Rickles
Born	May 8, 1926, Queens, New York
Died	April 6, 2017, Los Angeles, California
Occupation	Comedian, Actor, Author
Known For	Insult comedy, "Mr. Warmth" nickname

Don Rickles wasn't just a stand-up comedian; he was also an actor and author. His work in films like "Kelly's Heroes" and TV shows like "The Dean Martin Show" cemented his place in Hollywood history. But it was his sharp wit and insult comedy that truly set him apart.

Early Life and Career

Don Rickles didn't start off as a comedian. In fact, his early career was anything but glamorous. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and later pursued acting. But acting gigs were hard to come by, so he turned to stand-up comedy to make ends meet. And boy, did he ever make it work!

His big break came when he started performing at the Copacabana nightclub in New York City. That's where Frank Sinatra noticed him and became a lifelong fan. Sinatra even invited Rickles to perform at his own parties, introducing him to a whole new audience.

Don Rickles' Comedy Style

So, what made Don Rickles so special? Well, it was his unique brand of insult comedy. Unlike other comedians who relied on slapstick or observational humor, Rickles went straight for the jugular. He'd roast anyone and everyone, from audience members to celebrities. But here's the thing: people loved it. They knew he was just messing around, and his charm made even the harshest insults feel like compliments.

Some of his most famous targets included Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, and even Presidents like Richard Nixon. Yeah, that's right—he roasted the President of the United States and lived to tell the tale. Now that's talent!

Why Did People Love His Insults?

Because they were delivered with a wink and a smile.
Because he had impeccable timing.
Because he always knew how far to push it without crossing the line.

It was this perfect blend of humor and heart that made Don Rickles a legend in his own time.

The Legacy of Don Rickles

Don Rickles' impact on the world of comedy cannot be overstated. He paved the way for modern insult comedians like roast master Jeff Ross. His influence can be seen in the work of countless comedians today, from Jerry Seinfeld to Chris Rock.

But his legacy extends beyond just comedy. He was a beloved figure in Hollywood, known for his generosity and kindness offstage. Many of his friends and colleagues have spoken about how he was always there to lend a helping hand when needed.

How Did He Influence Modern Comedy?

By proving that insult comedy could be both funny and respectful.
By showing that comedy could bring people together, even in the face of disagreement.
By inspiring a new generation of comedians to take risks and push boundaries.

As one of his fellow comedians once said, "Don Rickles didn't just make people laugh; he made them think." And that's the mark of a true comedic genius.

Don Rickles Last Words

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: Don Rickles last words. According to reports, his final words were, "I’m fixing to die." Pretty straightforward, right? But don't let the simplicity fool you—there's a lot more to this story than meets the eye.

Rickles had been in poor health for some time, suffering from kidney failure and other ailments. But even in his final days, he maintained his trademark sense of humor. His family has said that he faced death with the same grace and wit that he brought to his comedy.

What Do These Words Mean?

Some people have interpreted his last words as a final joke, a way of acknowledging his mortality with humor. After all, this was a man who spent his life making people laugh, even in the darkest of times. Others see it as a poignant reminder of our own mortality—a call to live each day to the fullest.

Whatever the interpretation, one thing is clear: Don Rickles went out the way he lived—on his own terms and with a smile on his face.

The Impact of His Final Words

Don Rickles last words have resonated deeply with his fans and fellow comedians. They serve as a reminder of his enduring legacy and the impact he had on the world of comedy. But they also offer a lesson for all of us: life is short, so we should make the most of every moment.

Many fans have shared their own stories of how Rickles' humor helped them through tough times. Some have even credited him with changing their lives. It's a testament to his ability to connect with people on a deeply personal level.

How Did His Words Affect Fans?

They inspired people to cherish their loved ones.
They reminded people to find humor even in difficult situations.
They encouraged people to live life with the same passion and energy that Don Rickles did.

In a world that often feels heavy and serious, Don Rickles showed us the power of laughter to heal and uplift. And his final words are a fitting tribute to that legacy.

Don Rickles' Funeral

When Don Rickles passed away in 2017, the entertainment world mourned the loss of a true legend. His funeral was a private affair, attended by close friends and family. Among those in attendance were fellow comedians and celebrities who had been touched by his life and work.

During the service, several speakers shared stories about Rickles' life and career. They spoke of his kindness, his generosity, and of course, his incredible sense of humor. It was a fitting tribute to a man who had brought so much joy to so many people.

Who Spoke at the Funeral?

Family members, including his wife Barbara and daughter Mindy.
Close friends and fellow comedians, like Jerry Seinfeld and Jeff Ross.
Industry professionals who had worked with Rickles over the years.

The funeral was a celebration of Rickles' life as much as it was a time to grieve his passing. It was a reminder that even in death, Rickles continued to bring people together.

Tributes from Fellow Comedians

Following Don Rickles' death, tributes poured in from comedians and celebrities around the world. They spoke of his influence on their own careers and of the profound impact he had on the world of comedy. Some even shared their favorite Rickles stories, bringing a little laughter to an otherwise somber time.

One of the most touching tributes came from Jeff Ross, who called Rickles "the king of roast comedy." Ross said that Rickles had taught him everything he knew about the art of roasting and that he would always be grateful for his mentorship.

What Did They Say?

"Don Rickles was the king of comedy, and we're all lucky to have been touched by his brilliance." – Jerry Seinfeld
"He taught me that comedy is about more than just making people laugh; it's about connecting with them on a deeper level." – Jeff Ross
"Don was a true gentleman and a brilliant comedian. We'll miss him dearly." – Various celebrities

These tributes underscored the lasting impact that Don Rickles had on the world of comedy and beyond.

How Fans Reacted

Fans around the world were devastated by the news of Don Rickles' passing. Social media was flooded with tributes and memories of his work. Many people shared their favorite Rickles jokes and clips, keeping his legacy alive in the digital age.

But it wasn't just about the jokes. Fans also spoke about how Rickles had inspired them to pursue their own passions, whether in comedy or other fields. His life was a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a good sense of humor.

What Did Fans Say?

"Don Rickles made me laugh when I needed it most. I'll never forget him." – Fan
"He was more than just a comedian; he was a friend to all of us." – Another fan
"Thank you, Don, for showing us that life is better with laughter." – Yet another fan

It's clear that Don Rickles' impact extends far beyond the world of comedy. He touched the lives of countless people, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

Conclusion

So there you have it—the story behind Don Rickles last words and the incredible legacy he left behind. From his early days as a struggling comedian to his rise as a Hollywood legend, Don Rickles lived a life filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments. And even in his final moments, he managed to leave us with a joke that will make us smile for years to come.

As we reflect on his life and career, let's take a moment to appreciate the lessons he taught us. Life is short, so we should live it to the fullest. We should cherish our loved ones, pursue our passions, and never lose our sense of humor. Because at the end of the day, it's the laughter that makes life worth living.

So, what do you say? Why not share this article with your friends and family? Or leave a comment below with your favorite Don Rickles joke? Let's keep the laughter going and honor the memory of a true comedy legend.

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