The Three Stooges

Epilogue: "Following their triumphant return to the stage, The Three Stooges became one of the most popular--and best paid--live comedy acts in America. Joe DeRita died in 1993. He always said that his years with The Stooges were the best of his life. Larry Fine suffered a stroke in 1970. He died in January 1975 at the age of 72. He remained a free spender up until the end. Moe Howard followed his lifelong friend and partner four months later. His passing marked the end of one of the most durable acts in comic history. In their 24-year career their slapstick escapades, televised around the world, have inspired a generation of comedians. They remain a favorite of all ages."

Curly Howard did not suffer his career ending stroke during the filming of a scene of Half-Wits Holiday (1947). It happened while he was offstage waiting for the scene to begin. He didn't respond when called, and Moe found him with his head slumped to his chest, unable to speak.