The city was struck with shock and sadness on May 11 upon learning of Tim O’Malley’s death at 68 due to natural causes. As people grieved, memories of O’Malley as a funny and inspiring individual soon brought smiles. Known for his humor at The Second City, he also touched many lives through his experiences.
Pamela Staker, a visual artist, shared a deep bond with O’Malley. They met in 2005 and decided to be life partners without formalizing it through marriage. Their relationship was both playful and affectionate, reflecting mutual respect and deep love. Staker remembers O’Malley as protective and loving, always ready to shield loved ones from harm.
While renowned for his humor, it was his tenderness and vulnerability that left a lasting impact on those close to him. Growing up in Beverly as the 10th of 11 children, Tim discovered acting at Southern Illinois University. By 1986, he had joined The Second City’s touring company.
His dreams took a hit when he faced addiction. Despite initial career success alongside stars like Bonnie Hunt and Chris Farley, Tim struggled as others advanced. His substance use, once seen as recreational, worsened after career disappointments.
“There was one night I was driving around in my underwear looking to buy some crack,” O’Malley recalled.
Eventually, his family persuaded him to seek help, leading to sobriety after a 90-day recovery program. By 1996, he returned to The Second City, now as a faculty member, teaching techniques that left a mark on many.
“Godshow,” an autobiographical play, was both a hit and a life-changer, drawing audiences at various venues. Clips of it remain available online. Tim’s influence extended to creating a Gateway program in 2012 that used improv for treatment, engaging men with rough pasts. He found great satisfaction in aiding their recovery.
“In improv, you learn that the group is greater than the sum of its parts,” he said. His impact resonated long after sessions ended.
O’Malley also attempted to assist Chris Farley, his friend and former castmate, who battled addiction. Despite his efforts, Farley passed away in 1997 at 33, matching the age of his idol John Belushi at the time of Belushi’s death.
“Too much emphasis is placed on the celebrities who die early. But look, addiction — booze or drugs — is not relegated to any one occupation. It’s people in all professions,” O’Malley stated.
While celebrities garner attention, O’Malley highlighted the tragedy of addiction among ordinary people — a reality familiar to mothers, fathers, and children.
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