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How did Freddie Roman die? Borscht Belt comic and actor, 85, best known for his roasts was 'real mensch'

Freddie Roman, born Fred Kirschenbaum, served as the dean, or president, of The Friar’s Club

BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA: Borscht Belt comic and actor Freddie Roman died at the age of 85 on Saturday, November 26, his family confirmed. Roman was best known for his roasts as part of New York City’s Friars Club and later Comedy Central.

His daughter confirmed to Deadline that he suffered a heart attack at a hospital in Boynton Beach, Florida. Roman spent most of his life in show business. He got an opportunity to emcee at his uncle and grandfather’s Crystal Spring Hotel in the Catskills at the age of just 15. Born Fred Kirschenbaum, the comedian served as the dean, or president, of The Friar’s Club. On Comedy Central’s Roasts, he notably took shots at celebrities including Jerry Stiller, Hugh Hefner, Drew Carey, Rob Reiner and Chevy Chase.

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Roman was seen in various films, including 'Welcome to Kutsher’s: The Last Catskills Resort' (2012), 'Bittersweet Place' (2005), 'Christ in the City' (2005), 'Finding North' (1998) and 'Sweet Lorraine' (1987). More recently, he co-starred in Amazon’s comedy series 'Red Oaks'. He made guest appearances on shows like 'Law & Order: Criminal Intent' and 'The Tonight Show'. He is survived by his wife, Ethel, and daughter, Judi Levin.

Tributes poured in on social media after the news of Roman's death surfaced. "Freddie Roman, one of the Borscht Belt greats. I was thrilled you picked up my call years back and honored you took the time to write something about my work - “beautiful and terrible.” I’ll take it," one user wrote. Another said, "I had the pleasure of talking with Freddie Roman (far right) on radio and met the Catskills on Broadway cast Dick Capri, Mal Z. Lawrence & Freddie Roman when they came to Sarasota. He was a class gentleman and a funny man on stage. Freddie passed away today at 85." "This makes me entirely sad. Freddie was a real mensch. When my parents wouldn’t take me to see Catskills on Broadway, I wrote Freddie a handwritten letter addressed to the theatre. He found my family’s number (pre-internet) and called me," wrote one user.

"RIP Dean Freddie Roman .. the Friar’s Friar .. back in ‘84 he sponsored me so I could join .. always the gentleman .. off to kick a** in The Catskills In The Sky," one user wrote, while another said, "RIP Freddie Roman - he was a true mensch and a big supporter many years ago of my effort to create a documentary about The Friars Club. You can enjoy his wit and wisdom throughout".

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