Tom Dreesen, Comedian And Opening Act For Frank Sinatra, Dies At 86
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- Hollywood & Entertainment Tom Dreesen, Comedian And Opening Act For Frank Sinatra, Dies At 86By Tim Lammers,
- Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights.
- NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA - MAY 19: Comedian Tom Dreesen performs on day five of the NOHO Comedy Festival at Ha Ha Cafe Comedy Club on May 19, 2018 in North Hollywood, California.
Hollywood & Entertainment Tom Dreesen, Comedian And Opening Act For Frank Sinatra, Dies At 86By Tim Lammers,
Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I cover Hollywood and entertainment.Follow Author Jun 17, 2026, 06:03pm EDTJun 17, 2026, 06:32pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Summary Stand-up comedy legend Tom Dreesen has died at 86. He was widely known for his 14-year tenure as Frank Sinatra's opening act and made hundreds of television appearances, including on "The Tonight Show" and David Letterman's programs. Dreesen also formed half of the "Tim and Tom" comedy duo with Tim Reid. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, he was a dedicated patriot and ambassador for the Gary Sinise Foundation, supporting military families. Actor Gary Sinise remembered him as a "great comedian and patriot" and a "dear friend." Beyond his stand-up career, Dreesen took on acting roles in films like "Spaceballs" and "Man on the Moon, and TV series such as "WKRP in Cincinnati."
NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA - MAY 19: Comedian Tom Dreesen performs on day five of the NOHO Comedy Festival at Ha Ha Cafe Comedy Club on May 19, 2018 in North Hollywood, California. (Photo by Michael S. Schwartz/Getty Images)Getty ImagesStand-up comedy great Tom Dreesen, who was an longtime opening act for Frank Sinatra and made hundreds of television appearances, has died.