Second City comedian Michael Lehrer has died at the age of 44 after a brave battle with ALS
Comedian Michael Lehrer has died at the age of 44 in Portland, Oregon after a more than five-year battle with ALS.
Teacher’s friend Colette Montague told the Chicago Sun-Times that the ailing comedian decided to end his life with the help of a doctor.
“Michael died with dignity on his own terms,” Montague told the newspaper. “He wasn’t suicidal at all. … Getting medical help while dying was the hardest decision he ever made.’
The Latest: Comedian Michael Lehrer has died aged 44 of ALS complications after battling the disease for more than five years. Pictured in Chicago in 2014
The entertainer, who was part of The Second City troupe, continued his career after being diagnosed with the neurodegenerative disease in 2017.
Teacher has been performing in clubs in Austin, Texas while in a wheelchair and has spoken out about his health struggle both in his sets and on the Kill Tony podcast, Deadline reported.
He is survived by his son Colin and his girlfriend Colette.
A commemorative post on Teacher’s Instagram account read: “The final act – look out for the sequel. Good luck, you wild and crazy man. We always love you and are grateful for everything you gave to the world.’
Teacher had performed in clubs in Austin, Texas while in a wheelchair and spoke about his health struggle both in his sets and on the Kill Tony podcast