Edward Sommerfeld

Edward Sommerfeld, William Morris Agent, Friars Club member and Talent Manager of Rodney Dangerfield, died in NYC on September 16th, 2021. He was 89. Born and raised in NYC, he graduated from the NY Military Academy and Pace University. He then served in the US Navy aboard the U.S.S. Missouri during the Korean War. Ed began his career in the mailroom of The William Morris Agency, working his way up to full-time Talent Agent. His clients included Jackie Mason, Joan Rivers, Henny Youngman, David Frye and Judy Garland, among many others. In the early 60’s, Ed discovered Rodney Dangerfield, then known as Jack Roy, at The Improv. The rest is comedy history. With Ed’s guidance, Rodney became a comedy icon, appearing on the Ed Sullivan Show, Johnny Carson and comedy clubs throughout the country. After retiring from show business, Ed became a strong advocate for senior services in NYC. He was President of JASA Club 76 Advisory Council. His brother Martin, sister Barbara Wirfel and ex-wife Francine Davis predeceased him. Ed is survived by his daughter Lisa Sommerfeld Kaplan, son-in-law Kenneth Kaplan, granddaughter Hayley Kaplan, sister Audrey Peltzman and many nieces and nephews.