Date of Birth: March 9, 1934
Zodiac Sign: Pisces
Date of Death: March 4, 1999
Biography
Del Close was an influential American actor, writer, and teacher, best known for his pioneering work in improvisational theatre. Born in Manhattan, Kansas, Close became a central figure in the world of comedy and improvisation, significantly shaping the careers of many prominent comedians. He began his career in the 1950s, performing with the Compass Players, which later evolved into The Second City, a renowned improvisational theater troupe based in Chicago. Close’s innovative techniques and philosophies on improvisation, particularly the concept of “Yes, and…” and long-form improvisation like the “Harold,” have left an enduring legacy in the comedy world. Throughout his career, Close also worked in television and film, appearing in shows like “Saturday Night Live” and “M*A*S*H.” He authored several books on improvisation and taught countless students who went on to become major stars in comedy. Del Close passed away in 1999, but his impact on the world of comedy continues to be felt.
5 Interesting Facts about Del Close
1. Del Close co-authored the influential book “Truth in Comedy,” which outlines many of his improvisational techniques.
2. He was a mentor to many famous comedians, including Bill Murray, John Belushi, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler.
3. Del Close was known for his eccentric personality and once staged his own death as a practical joke.
4. He was a member of the Merry Pranksters, a group led by author Ken Kesey in the 1960s.
5. Close’s brain was donated to science for the study of creativity in the brain, a wish he expressed throughout his life.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Del Close
1. “The truth is funny. Honest discovery, observation, and reaction is better than contrived invention.”
2. “Treat your audience like poets and geniuses and they’ll have the chance to become them.”
3. “Follow the fear.”
4. “Fall, then figure out what to do on the way down.”
5. “You can’t learn anything from a mistake if you deny that it happened.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Del Close’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $1 million at the time of his death.
Children
Del Close did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Del Close on Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Del_Close
2. [Del Close at IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0167035/
3. [The Second City – Del Close](https://www.secondcity.com/people/other/del-close/
5. [Del Close Marathon](https://delclosemarathon.com/
