Marty Allen, a beloved comedian and staple for TV variety shows and game shows, has died. He was 95.
Allen’s spokeswoman Candi Cazau confirmed his death to the Associated Press on Monday. He died of complications from pneumonia in Las Vegas with his wife and longtime performing partner, Karon Kate Blackwell, by his side.
Best known for his greeting and catchphrase “hello dere,” Allen shared the stage with Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Lena Horne and Elvis Presley, among others.
Born in Pittsburgh, Allen served in Italy in the Army Air Corps in World War II — earning a medal for valor — before turning to entertainment.
He first found success in the duo Allen & Rossi with late partner Steve Rossi. They were favorites on “The Ed Sullivan Show” before breaking up in 1968.
Described as “baby-faced, bug-eyed comic,” he later became a regular on “The Hollywood Squares” and other popular game shows.
His first wife, Lorraine “Frenchy” Allen, died in 1976 and he went on to marry singer-songwriter Blackwell in 1984.