On Sunday, June 16, 2024, acclaimed comedian and actor Hiram Kasten, a pillar of the New York comedy scene and notable TV actor, died in his Batavia, New York home at the age of 71. The cause of his death was linked to years of prostate cancer and Crohn’s disease.
Born Hiram Z. Kastenbaum on October 30, 1952, in the Bronx, New York City, Kasten had a lifelong dream of becoming an actor. He initiated his career in the late 1970s, performing at renowned New York comedy venues such as The Comic Strip. It was there that he formed a lifelong friendship with Jerry Seinfeld, a friendship that played a significant role in his career.
During his early career, Kasten was a regular at comedy clubs like Catch a Rising Star, The Improv, The Comedy Cellar, and Caroline’s. He also ran his own show at Dangerfield’s on Sunday nights. His signature vaudeville-inspired comedy, which often drew from the styles of Alan King and Jackie Gleason, made him a familiar figure on the New York comedy circuit.
Kasten relocated to Los Angeles in the late 1980s, a move that furthered his career. He secured roles in popular TV shows such as “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” “L.A. Law,” “Cybill,” “Mad About You,” “My Wife and Kids,” “Brooklyn Bridge,” “7th Heaven,” “Men of a Certain Age,” “Everybody Loves Raymond,” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” His portrayal of Michael, a colleague to Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ Elaine on “Seinfeld,” is one of his most significant roles.
Additionally, Kasten had a notable role in the Las Vegas show “The Rat Pack is Back” at the Desert Inn, where he played a character similar to Joey Bishop. His comedy career took him across the globe and saw him perform on luxury cruise lines like Seabourn, Royal Viking, and Princess.
His health deteriorated in his later years, leading him to retire from performing in 2017. Nevertheless, he remained connected to the comedy community. His wife, Diana Kisiel Kastenbaum, shared on Facebook that late-night Zoom meetings with friends brought comfort and joy to Kasten in his final months.
Reflecting on his life and career, Kasten said, “I always wanted to make people laugh. It’s the greatest feeling in the world.” His work and the memories he left behind will undeniably continue to bring joy to many.
Kasten is survived by his wife Diana, whom he married in June 1986, his daughter, Millicent Jade, and a large extended family. His death occurred just hours after he celebrated his 38th wedding anniversary.
The funeral services for Kasten took place in Forest Hills, New York City, with a memorial service to be held in Los Angeles later this summer. The family has asked for memorial donations to be made to Crossroads House or the Entertainment Community Fund, in honor of Kasten’s lifelong support of fellow performers.
