The Florida comedy community is mourning the loss of one of its own.
Stand-up comic Erik Myers passed away on Wednesday in Texas after bring struck by a vehicle.
“I am beyond shocked to learn of the passing of one of the most hilarious and sweetest people I know, Erik Myers. I am numb right now. He was beyond funny; he was the comic that everyone loved to watch and hated to follow, plus he was so kind and genuine and real. He was a headliner on stage and off,” Flip Schultz posted on Facebook.
According to news reports out of Texas, Myers was walking on US 87 around 6 a.m. on Wednesday in Potter County, Tex. when he was struck by a van. Authorities pronounced Myers dead on the scene.
Myers primarily resided in the Orlando area but recently spent a great deal of time in South Florida with fellow comic and friend Jennifer Hellman.
Upon learning of Myers’ death, Hellman posted a simple one-word message on her Facebook account: “Inconsolable.”
As word of Myers’ demise spread Thursday afternoon, many local comics expressed their thoughts on social media.
“Rest In Peace to the very funny and kind Erik Myers. The comedy world has a giant hole in its heart today,” Wayne Felber wrote.
In November Jessy Denny produced a show in Jupiter headlined by Myers.
On Wednesday Denny wrote: “Comedy suffered a major loss with this one. I’ve watched Erik Myers absolutely destroy rooms and it was always inspiring and amazing to get to watch him work. I can’t wrap my head around it honestly. If you’ve never had the honor of seeing him, go watch his newest special on Tubi titled Erik Myers: Gen X Man and you’ll see what I’m talking about.”
Born in Maryland, Myers launched his stand-up career in Baltimore and was named “Funniest Person in Baltimore” in 2005. After moving to Florida, Myers won the initial Florida’s Funniest Comic contest in 2011 at the Palm Beach Improv.
“The Comedy world is beyond sad today. Erik Myers was one of the funniest comics and nicest guys I have ever met. I was honored and proud to have him as our first Florida’s Funniest Comedian. RIP,” wrote Improv owner Rene Harte.
Myers spent nearly a decade living Los Angeles, where he was a regular at comedy mecca the Comedy Store, before returning to the Sunshine State.
On its official Twitter account, the Comedy Store posted: “We’re incredibly sad to announce the passing of Paid Regular Erik Myers. The energy he brought to the stage was always matched by the audience’s laughter. Rest easy Erik and make Mitzi laugh for us.”
Myers resume included several acting credits, and multiple comedy specials.
“An undeniable talent, comedic genius, great guy off the stage. You made your mark as one of the best ever, your comedy will live on forever brother. RIP Erik Myers,” Nadeem Awad wrote.
