Joe DeRita

Joe DeRita, born Joseph Wardell on July 12, 1909, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was an iconic American comedian renowned for his role as Curly-Joe DeRita, the "sixth" member of the legendary comedy troupe, the Three Stooges. Emerging from a family steeped in the performing arts—his father a stage technician and his mother a professional dancer—DeRita was exposed to the world of entertainment from a young age.

In the 1920s, he adopted his mother’s maiden name, DeRita, and made his mark in the burlesque scene, where he honed his comedic skills and developed a unique style that garnered attention. His talents took him beyond the stage when he served in the USO during World War II, entertaining troops across Britain and France alongside stars like Bing Crosby and Randolph Scott.

DeRita’s most notable achievement came when he joined the Three Stooges in the late 1950s, stepping into the role of Curly-Joe after the original Curly Howard’s passing. His comedic timing and slapstick humor contributed significantly to the group’s enduring legacy, appearing in several films and television series that solidified their place in pop culture history. Joe DeRita continued to entertain until his passing on July 3, 1993, leaving behind a cherished legacy in American comedy.