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Comedian Michael Lehrer has shared one final joke 'from beyond the grave' following the tragic news of his passing.
The late performer passed away aged 44 by medically assisted suicide on Tuesday, January 17, after being diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2017.
His partner and primary caregiver Colette Montague confirmed the news, telling the Chicago Sun-Times: "Michael died with dignity on his own terms... Medical aid in dying was the hardest decision he ever made."
This was certainly reflected in Lehrer's final appearance on Kill Tony, Tony Hinchcliffe's live comedy podcast on which the stand-up comedian would regularly perform.
Lehrer was open about having ALS and would often use it in his stand-up, cracking jokes such as: "Where the f*** did all the ice bucket money go?"
In an episode which aired back in December, the improv expert was said to have postponed his assisted suicide date in order to perform.
Hinchcliffe and his fellow podcasters invited Lehrer up to the stage to give him a Kill Tony Hall of Fame award after showing a compilation of his various performances, starting off with his first appearance back in 2019.
And now Lehrer has demonstrated his dedication to the art form by cracking a joke from 'beyond the grave' with a post shared on his Instagram yesterday, January 20 – three days after his passing.
Alongside a screenshot of numerous news articles on his death, the caption states: "I told you I was sick."
Hundreds of people have taken to the comments section to praise the comedy star, with one writing: "Still making us laugh. Michael, you are so loved."
"I read that in his voice and got chills," said another, while a third added, "The fact that he wrote this post before he died. Legend."
A fourth commented: "Learned about this hilarious gentleman from Kill Tony. My friends dad struggled with ALS through our grade school.
"I remember the call when he told me he was diagnosed, and I have a vivid memory of when he called to come over to pray around him before passing.
"Prayers to the whole family and countless friends of Michael. What a f***ing incredible spirit that everyone can learn from, even with dealing with one of the worst diseases in ALS."
Joe Rogan, who is a regular guest star and fan of the podcast, shared a touching tribute to Lehrer.
Posting a portrait of the comic, he said: "The courage this man had to do stand up while battling a debilitating disease was insanely impressive, and though he struggled to get words out the man would KILL onstage.
"He was a real legend, and I’m going to miss him very much.
"Repost: @killtonyshow We knew it was coming yet there are still no words for it. What a human. He truly lived to make you all laugh.
"Rest easy our dear @michael_lehrer_als."
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677
Featured Image Credit: @michael_lehrer_als/InstagramTopics: US News, Health, Film and TV
Daisy Phillipson