Peter Crombie, an actor best known for his portrayal of “Crazy” Joe Davola on the hit sitcom “Seinfeld,” died on January 10, 2024. He was 71. His death was confirmed by his ex-wife, Nadine Kijner, in a social media announcement. Crombie succumbed to an intestinal illness, as stated by Kijner in her heartfelt tribute to the late actor.
Crombie’s memorable portrayal of “Crazy” Joe Davola left a significant mark on television history. In “Seinfeld,” his character was an antagonist to Jerry Seinfeld, engaging in activities such as stalking and threatening Jerry, often adding a chilling yet comic element to the show. One of his most notable lines from the series, as he left a voicemail for Seinfeld, was, “Jerry, Joe Davola … I know what you said about me, Seinfeld. I know you badmouthed me to the execs at NBC, put the kibosh on my deal. Now I’m going to put the kibosh on you. You know I’ve kiboshed before. And I will kibosh again.”
Beyond “Seinfeld,” Crombie’s acting career was diverse and extensive. He made appearances in numerous television series, including “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” “Law & Order,” “Walker, Texas Ranger,” and “NYPD Blue.” His versatility as an actor was further demonstrated through his role as Frankenstein’s Creature in the 1997 miniseries “House of Frankenstein.”
In the film industry, Crombie worked on projects like “Natural Born Killers,” “The Doors,” and “The Blob.” His final on-screen performance was in the year 2000.
Crombie’s career, however, was not limited to acting. He was also recognized for his contributions as a writer, adding another dimension to his artistic legacy. His peers in the entertainment industry, including comedian Lewis Black, remembered him fondly, praising his talent and the impact he had on those around him. Black described Crombie as a gifted artist and a wonderful person, highlighting the personal qualities that made him a beloved figure in his professional circles.
A graduate of Yale Drama School, Crombie’s journey in the arts was marked by an array of complex characters, often portraying “tormented people.” Despite these challenging roles, he was remembered by his friends and colleagues as a gentle and loyal individual, contrasting the often-intense nature of his on-screen personas.
Crombie’s influence extended beyond his professional achievements. His ex-wife’s tribute painted a picture of a kind, giving, caring, and creative soul, who was loved by many for his generous spirit and artistic flair. Kijner’s words, “Fly free into the Un-boundless source of light, Peter. May you be greeted with love by your parents, and Oliver,” encapsulated the deep personal loss felt by those who knew him.