Comedian Jackie Mason has passed away at the age of 93, a close friend of the star has confirmed. Mason, who was a Rabbi before his controversial comedy made him a household name, died in a Manhattan, New York City hospital according to his lawyer and friend Raoul Felder.
Felder reportedly told The Hollywood Reporter that the comic experienced trouble breathing prior to passing away in his sleep.
Mason was famed for his Borscht Belt style and issue-oriented comedy after becoming a full-time comedian in 1959. while his acts were also often controversial.
His style was undeniably Jewish and this helped him to become established as a cultural touchstone for famous acts that would follow, such as Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld.
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