Lou Alexander, a legendary comedian who graced the national nightclub circuit in the vibrant 1950s and 1960s, has sadly passed away in the glamorous city of Beverly Hills. The cause of his departure remains a mystery, as confirmed by his close friend, Jeremy Vernon.
Born into a family of entertainers, Alexander’s father was a renowned burlesque comedian who dazzled audiences in the iconic Catskills during the golden era of the famous “Borscht Belt.” Young Lou eagerly joined his father’s act at the tender age of 10, showcasing his comedic talents in their hilarious skits.
Later on, Alexander teamed up with his high school buddy, Howard Storm, who would go on to direct acclaimed films such as “Bananas,” “Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Sex But Were Afraid To Ask,” and “Take The Money and Run.” Together, they formed the dynamic duo known as Storm and Gale, captivating audiences in the Miami area and amassing a devoted following among fellow comedians who were astounded by their burlesque routines. Unfortunately, their partnership came to an abrupt end when Alexander was drafted into the Marines.
Undeterred by the challenges life threw his way, Alexander embarked on a solo career after his military service, conquering the biggest stages from coast to coast throughout the 1950s and 1960s. He even immortalized his comedic genius in a side-splitting comedy album titled “The Earth-Shattering Lou Alexander,” released by United Artists Records. Additionally, he made occasional appearances on television, showcasing his comedic prowess.
As time went on, Alexander transitioned into a new chapter of his career as an agent and manager. He began working for the esteemed New York agent, Norby Walters, before eventually venturing out on his own. Alexander successfully booked performances for Budd Friedman’s iconic Improv comedy clubs in both Los Angeles and New York, while also overseeing productions for various prestigious venues in Las Vegas.
In the later years of his illustrious career, Alexander even dabbled in acting, making memorable cameos in popular shows like “Beverly Hills 90210” and “Melrose Place.”
Lou Alexander leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, Arlene Walsh, and his daughters Stacy and Rachel. His legacy as a comedic trailblazer will forever be cherished and remembered by all who had the pleasure of witnessing his extraordinary talent.
