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‘Last Man Standing’ Star Tim Allen Reacts to Death of ‘Incredible’ Comedy Legend

Prolific writer, actor, and comedic genius Paul Mooney died today, and friends and fans, the Last Man Standing star among them, are paying their respects.

On May 19, 2021, Paul Mooney died of a heart attack at the age of 79 after a remarkable life. His influence can be found in every corner of comedy. From writing some of the finest sitcoms of all time, to pioneering meaningful Black roles in comedy, Mooney was one in a million.

Last Man Standing‘s Tim Allen is paying respects to his fellow comedy icon Wednesday after hearing of Mooney’s unexpected passing.

“We all lost one remarkable great funnyman today,” Allen begins on Twitter. “The incredible Paul Mooney. Prayers to his kind and wonderful family.”

The Last Man Standing star’s praise follows a tweet from Mooney’s estate on Twitter celebrating his life, which reads:

“Thank you all from the bottom of all of our hearts …you’re all are the best!…… Mooney World .. The Godfather of Comedy – ONE MOON MANY STARS! .. To all in love with this great man.. many thanks.”

From ‘Last Man Standing’s Tim Allen to Dave Chappelle, Comedy Icons Rememeber the Best: Paul Mooney

Mooney’s list of credits is remarkable, to say the least; his legendary collaborations with Richard Pryor among his finest. The icon also wrote for Sanford and Son, Good Times, and In Living Color. As an actor, Mooney would star as Sam Cooke in 1978’s The Buddy Holly Story, and make numerous appearances on The Richard Pryor Show, The Larry Sanders Show and most recently: Chappelle’s Show.

Dave Chappelle himself issued a video statement (below) for his late friend and colleague today, putting the icon’s legacy into the perfect words:

“I want to shout out to every comedian on earth: he was the best that ever did it,” Chappelle begins. “He paved the way to today. His legacy will live forever. He did everything from The Richard Pryor Show to Chappelle Show. He was one of the first Black people ever in the Writer’s Guild. Paul Mooney will be sorely missed, and wildly remembered.”

In 2004, Paul Mooney would star in his own comedy series, Judge Mooney, years before Tim Allen would make his return to television on Last Man Standing. His memoir, Black Is the New White, hit shelves in 2005, and told the remarkable journey of his life as a Black man at the heart of Hollywood comedy.

Rest in Peace, Paul Mooney. Our condolences to his surviving family, friends, and fans.