Accomplished actor Eddie Driscoll, noted for his performances in celebrated television series such as “Mad Men,” “Entourage,” “This Is Us,” and “Sex and the City,” has passed away at the age of 60.
Jimmy Palumbo, a close friend and colleague of Driscoll, confirmed his passing this week, revealing that the cause of death was a saddle pulmonary embolism. Driscoll died on December 15, 2023, in Los Angeles, California, after a struggle with stomach cancer.
According to Yale Medicine, a saddle pulmonary embolism is a significant health crisis that happens when a blood clot of considerable size lodges at the bifurcation of the pulmonary artery, causing an obstruction in the blood flow to both lungs.
Driscoll, a New York native born on September 26, 1963, was a graduate of Lenape Valley Regional High School in Stanhope, New Jersey, finishing his studies there in 1981.
After high school, Driscoll pursued an acting career at the University of Miami. He further developed his skills through an apprenticeship at the Burt Reynolds Institute for Film and Theatre in North Palm Beach, Florida.
Mentored by industry legends like Burt Reynolds and Carol Burnett, Driscoll evolved into a versatile actor, securing various roles across different genres.
Driscoll’s association with Reynolds led to roles in the 1989 films “Physical Evidence” and “Breaking In,” and he also appeared in the ’90s television series “B.L. Stryker” and “Evening Shade.”
Beyond his work with Reynolds, Driscoll’s television career featured significant roles in “Desperate Housewives,” “Days of Our Lives,” “Heroes,” “24,” “CSI: Miami,” and “The King of Queens.” His ability to portray complex characters in these series demonstrated his broad range and his skill in engaging audiences.
Driscoll’s film work was equally notable, with roles in “Lansky” (1999), “Boat Trip” and “Pavement” (2002), and “Cellular” (2004). On the stage, Driscoll showed his theatrical skills as the loan shark Angelo “Gyp” DeCarlo in the West Coast production of “Jersey Boys,” earning praise for his commanding stage presence.
In addition to his acting, Driscoll was known for his long-term position as a host at the now-defunct Dimples Bar in Burbank, California, a role he held for over 20 years.
Dimples, which opened in 1982, was reputed to be the first karaoke bar in America. The establishment became a popular spot for Valley locals and was famous for its closeness to industry studios, attracting both celebrities and emerging artists.
In January 2024, a celebration of Driscoll’s life was held at the Fox Fire Room, a Los Angeles bar where Driscoll had also worked. The event brought together friends, family, and fans to pay tribute to his significant contributions to the entertainment industry.
Driscoll is survived by his brother, Danny. His co-workers and friends remember him not just for his acting prowess, but also for his warmth, humor, and the positive impact he had on many lives.
