5 Great Stand-Up Comedians Who Died Before Their Time [VIDEOS]

For those who understand the true art behind stand up comedy, the performances hold a special place in our hearts. Sure, going to a club and yucking it up with everyone is a blast, but when you think of all the work, determination, and sheer talent that goes into standing up in front of 300 - 3000 strangers and bringing laughter, it takes on a whole different meaning.

There aren't many other professions where an artist enjoys the idea of each and every word that comes out of their mouth being scrutinized and judged. But, the pay off for that is out of this world. When you're hanging out with your friends and your cracking jokes and everyone is laughing, there is a feeling that people get (at least I do) that makes you feel good, like maybe your doing something to brighten someone's day. Take that feeling and multiply it by 1000 and that is the feeling when you can take an entire room full of people on that very same journey with you.

There truly is nothing like it. Every comedian has the people that came before them that influenced their style and allowed them to find their own voice on stage. You observe, laugh, and admire these greats, until one day you find yourself. That is at least my experience.

Sadly, comedy is full of tragedy. Great comedians and performers who passed way before their time. This post is a bit of a tribute to some of the greatest comics of all time, who died way to young.

These videos are NSFW

#1. Bill Hicks

Bill Hicks was known for his brutal comedy style and social satire. He was an original 'Outlaw Of Comedy'. He was known for rants that would sometimes last for minutes and even for his addictive lifestyle. While he never broke into the "mainstream", he had a cult following that lasts even to this day. Bill died in 1994 of pancreatic cancer.

#2. Sam Kinison

Sam Kinison, also a founding member of the 'Outlaws of Comedy' was a former preacher who began doing standup comedy in Houston, Texas. His rock star style on and off stage made him one of the most popular comedians of the 80s and early 90s. He reached rock star status and was also in many movies and sold out coliseums across the country. He was killed in a car wreck in 1992.

#3. Mitch Hedberg

Mitch had a style that you either loved, or hated. There wasn't much in between for Mitch. I personally thought he was hilarious. Mitch was also a self admitted drug addict and that is what led to his downfall. In 2005 he was found dead in a hotel room and was assumed that a heart defect was to blame, later toxicology showed that cocaine and heroin were what lead to his death.

#4. Richard Jeni

Richard Jeni was a comic who was known for his part in The Mask with Jim Carrey and his many appearances on the Tonight Show. Richard frequently sold out massive venues across the country. He died in 2007 from a self inflicted gunshot wound.

#5. Greg Giraldo

If you have ever watched a Comedy Central Roast, then you have surely seen Greg Giraldo. Many specials on the same network and even a judge on Last Comic Standing. Greg died that the age of 44 after overdosing on prescription drugs.

Don't Miss Carl LaBove LIVE in Amarillo
Carl Labove Stand Up Comedy Saturday June 29th at the Party Room, 3501 SW 45th (Behind Abuelos, Not The Party Barn). Tickets are $12 in advance & $15 the day of the show. Tickets available Townsquare Media Radio Station, 6214 W 34th Next to KFC.