Rick Ducommun, ‘The ‘Burbs’ Actor, Dies At 62

Rick Ducommun, the Canadian actor and comedian best known for his role in The ‘Burbs, died earlier this month. He was 62.

Rick Ducommun Dies

Ducommun’s brother Pete Ducommun confirmed his death Thursday, reported People magazine. According to his brother, Ducommun died June 12 at a Vancouver hospital from complications due to diabetes.

Ducommun got his start in show business in the 80s as a stand-up comedian, and went on to write and act for a variety of projects. In the early part of his career, he appeared on children’s TV series Zig Zag, as well as Slickers and The Last Precinct. He went on to make appearances in NYPD Blue, Murphy Brown, The Wayans Bros. and Nash Bridges.

In 1989, Ducommun had his big break starring alongside Tom Hanks in The ‘Burbs as nosy neighbor Art Weingartner. His performance in the film led to him earning a number of other movie parts, including roles in The Hunt for Red October, Encino Man, Groundhog Day and Blank Check. 

As for his stand-up, Ducommun was a regular performer on the Comedy Channel, which is now known as Comedy Central. HBO produced stand-up special Rick Ducommun: Piece of Mind in 1989 and a follow-up in 1992, titled Hit and Run. 

“He was funny, talented and creative,” said Peter Ducommun. “I think what people admired most was his stand-up. He was a comedian’s comedian. Anyone who had the opportunity to see him live, loved his material.”

Ducommun is survived by his brother, and children Hudson, Cord, Austin and Nash.