The entertainment world mourns the loss of accomplished actor Eddie Driscoll, recognized for his memorable roles in acclaimed television series like “Mad Men,” “Entourage,” “This Is Us,” and “Sex and the City.” Driscoll passed away at the age of 60.
Actor Jimmy Palumbo, a friend and colleague, confirmed Driscoll’s passing. He revealed that Driscoll succumbed to a saddle pulmonary embolism on December 15, 2023, in Los Angeles, California, after a struggle with stomach cancer.
Yale Medicine states that a saddle pulmonary embolism is a critical medical emergency. It transpires when a significant blood clot lodges at the division of the pulmonary artery, causing a blockage in the blood flow to both lungs.
Driscoll, a New York native born on September 26, 1963, completed his high school education at Lenape Valley Regional High School in Stanhope, New Jersey, in 1981.
He started his journey into acting at the University of Miami and further refined his skills during an apprenticeship at the Burt Reynolds Institute for Film and Theatre in North Palm Beach, Florida.
Under the guidance of industry stalwarts like Burt Reynolds and Carol Burnett, Driscoll developed a versatile acting skill that saw him perform in diverse roles across multiple genres.
His association with Reynolds landed him roles in the 1989 films “Physical Evidence” and “Breaking In,” along with parts in the ’90s TV shows “B.L. Stryker” and “Evening Shade.”
Driscoll’s television career also featured notable roles in “Desperate Housewives,” “Days of Our Lives,” “Heroes,” “24,” “CSI: Miami,” and “The King of Queens.” His depictions of intricate characters in these series illustrated his dynamic range and resonance with viewers.
His film career was equally notable, with parts in “Lansky” (1999), “Boat Trip” and “Pavement” (2002), and “Cellular” (2004). On stage, Driscoll exhibited his theatrical skills as the loan shark Angelo “Gyp” DeCarlo in the West Coast tour of “Jersey Boys,” earning praise for his compelling presence.
Outside of acting, Driscoll was acknowledged for his enduring role as a host at the now-defunct Dimples Bar in Burbank, California, where he served for over 20 years.
Dimples was reputed to be America’s first karaoke bar, opened in 1982. The bar was a popular spot for Valley residents due to its closeness to industry studios, often drawing celebrities and emerging artists.
A celebration of Driscoll’s life and career took place in January 2024 at Fox Fire Room, a Los Angeles bar where Driscoll also worked. The event gathered friends, family, and fans to pay tribute to his contributions to the entertainment field.
Driscoll is survived by his brother, Danny. His co-workers and friends remember him for his talent, friendliness, wit, and the significant impact he had on numerous lives.