Veteran actor Eddie Driscoll, renowned for his roles in iconic television shows such as “Mad Men,” “Entourage,” “This Is Us,” and “Sex and the City,” has died at the age of 60.
Driscoll’s death was confirmed this week by his friend and fellow actor, Jimmy Palumbo, who reported that Driscoll died from a saddle pulmonary embolism on December 15, 2023, in Los Angeles, California, following a battle with stomach cancer.
Yale Medicine describes a saddle pulmonary embolism as a critical health emergency that occurs when a substantial blood clot becomes stuck at the division of the pulmonary artery, leading to a blockage in the blood supply to both lungs.
Driscoll, born on September 26, 1963, in New York, was an alumnus of Lenape Valley Regional High School in Stanhope, New Jersey, completing his studies there in 1981.
He embarked on his acting journey at the University of Miami, further honing his craft through an apprenticeship at the Burt Reynolds Institute for Film and Theatre in North Palm Beach, Florida.
Under the tutelage of industry icons like Burt Reynolds and Carol Burnett, Driscoll cultivated a versatile talent that saw him grace the screen in various roles across genres.
Driscoll’s collaboration with Reynolds brought him roles in the 1989 films “Physical Evidence” and “Breaking In,” as well as appearances on the ’90s TV shows “B.L. Stryker” and “Evening Shade.”
His television career also included memorable parts in “Desperate Housewives,” “Days of Our Lives,” “Heroes,” “24,” “CSI: Miami,” and “The King of Queens.” His portrayal of complex characters in these series showcased his dynamic range and ability to connect with audiences.
His filmography was equally impressive, featuring roles in “Lansky” (1999), “Boat Trip” and “Pavement” (2002), and “Cellular” (2004). On stage, Driscoll showcased his theatrical prowess as the loan shark Angelo “Gyp” DeCarlo in the West Coast tour of “Jersey Boys,” demonstrating his talent in live performance and earning acclaim for his powerful presence.
Beyond his acting career, Driscoll was known for his long-standing role as a host at the now-closed Dimples Bar in Burbank, California, where he worked for over two decades.
Dimples held the distinction of being what was claimed to be America’s first karaoke bar, having opened in 1982. The bar became a local hangout for Valley residents and was known for its proximity to industry studios, often attracting celebrities and rising artists.
His life and legacy were celebrated in January 2024 at Fox Fire Room, a bar in Los Angeles where Driscoll had also worked, drawing together friends, family, and fans to honor his contributions to the entertainment industry.
Driscoll is survived by his brother, Danny. His colleagues and friends remember him not only for his talent but for his warmth, humor, and profound influence on the lives of many.
As the entertainment industry mourns, Eddie Driscoll’s body of work is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and indelible mark on television and film. His contributions to the arts have enriched the cultural landscape, and his memory will live on through the countless stories he helped bring to life.
