Canadian Comedian Mike Bullard Dies at 67: A Life of Laughter and Challenges
Mike Bullard, a renowned Canadian stand-up comic and broadcaster from Etobicoke, Ontario, has sadly passed away at the age of 67. Bullard, who gained national fame as a talk show host and stand-up comedian, was found dead following what is believed to be a heart attack, according to his family in an interview with Global News.
Early Life and Comedy Beginnings
Mike Bullard was born in Etobicoke, a suburb of Toronto, and began his career in stand-up comedy, performing at clubs throughout Ontario. Before transitioning to television, Bullard built a reputation as a talented live performer, frequently appearing at Yuk Yuk’s comedy clubs. His success on stage eventually led him to a career in broadcasting, but comedy remained his true passion.
Bullard’s family background includes his father, who worked in retail, and his mother, a homemaker. His brother, Pat Bullard, is also a comedian and television host, while his older half-brother, Chuck Jackson, served as the lead singer for the Downchild Blues Band. Bullard spent much of his early life in Mississauga, after the family moved from Don Mills and later settled in Cambridge, Ontario.
Rise to Fame
Bullard’s breakthrough came in 1997 when he was hired by CTV to host the popular late-night show, ‘Open Mike With Mike Bullard’. The show ran successfully until 2003 and earned Bullard widespread recognition, including two Gemini Awards. Following his time at CTV, he hosted ‘The Mike Bullard Show’ on Global Television, although the show was short-lived, lasting only 13 weeks.
Following the cancellation of his television shows, Bullard transitioned to radio broadcasting. He became the host of ‘Beyond the Mic with Mike Bullard’ on Newstalk 1010 in Toronto, where he worked from 2010 until 2016. However, his career faced challenges in 2016 after he was charged with criminal harassment of a former romantic partner, leading to his departure from Newstalk 1010. Bullard later entered a guilty plea in 2018 to one count of harassing communication.
A Life of Comedy and Service
Despite personal and professional setbacks, Bullard’s contributions to comedy and his community were significant. His work on ‘Open Mike’ earned him accolades, and in 2013, he was awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition of his public service. Additionally, Bullard demonstrated his commitment to humanitarian efforts when he volunteered in Ukraine following the Russian invasion in 2022.
Throughout his life, Mike Bullard remained a fixture in the Canadian comedy scene, continuing to perform at Yuk Yuk’s and other venues across Ontario until his death. His influence on Canadian comedy and broadcasting left a lasting legacy, remembered fondly by his fans and colleagues.
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Conclusion: Remembering Mike Bullard
Mike Bullard’s death marks the end of an era in Canadian entertainment. His quick wit, humor, and passion for comedy endeared him to audiences across the country. Despite facing personal struggles later in life, Bullard’s impact on Canadian television and radio remains significant. His contributions to both comedy and his community will not be forgotten. Rest in peace, Mike Bullard—you will be missed by many.
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