Mr. James Carrozo

January 19, 1938 – July 20, 2025

James Joseph “Jimmy” Carrozo, aged 87, passed away from respiratory failure on July 20, 2025, at Bonnie Brae Nursing Home in Los Angeles. Born January 19, 1938, in New York City, Jimmy led a life as colorful and vibrant as the roles he loved to play.

A lifelong entertainer, Jimmy’s career spanned stage, screen, and sea. After a stint in the Army, he worked as a singer and dancer in New York before joining the touring cast of Hair in 1969. He later toured nationally as half of the comedy duo Granat & Carrozo, playing comedy clubs, colleges, casinos and cruise ships, with TV appearances on Merv Griffin and many others. After the 1986 death from AIDS of his partner, Rick Granat, he worked several years as a cruise director, plus writing, producing, and starring in shows aboard the ships. His credits also include Broadway (Jesus Christ Superstar), commercials for Fuji Film, Lexus, and Dollar Shave Club, and music videos for artists such as Vince Staples.

In 2022, at the age of 84, Jimmy fulfilled a lifelong dream: making his big-screen debut starring in the movie Moon Manor. The dramedy, inspired by his own life in show business, features Jimmy as a man with advancing Alzheimer’s who gathers his friends to throw a fabulous “FUNeral” for himself before he purposely ends his life. His performance was warmly received, and the film went on to stream on Showtime, Prime, and other platforms.

Jimmy was also a proud LGBTQ+ activist, marching and performing for causes including AIDS Project Los Angeles. He shared 18 years with his beloved partner, Rick Granat, and after Rick’s passing found love again with Marcus Linares, his husband of 10 years.

Honoring his wishes, Jimmy will be cremated, and his ashes interred beside Rick's grave at Eden Memorial Park in Mission Hills, CA. A memorial celebration is being planned, date to be announced.

Jimmy’s life was a testament to resilience, artistry, and joy. He leaves behind friends, fans, and a legacy that reminds us to live boldly and love fully.