Nyuk, Nyuk, Nyuk! Hardcore Fans Of The Three Stooges Need To Know These Facts

Joe DeRita

Joe DeRita is known by many as Curly Joe, and was on the show from 1958 to 1969. Before becoming a part of the iconic group, the Philadelphia native landed roles in “People Are Funny,” “The Sailor Takes a Wife,” and “High School Hero.”

Both of DeRita’s parents worked in the entertainment industry. His father was a stage technician and his mother was a stage dancer. He ended up taking his mother’s maiden name to launch his career. DeRita died from pneumonia at the age of 83.