Cook E. Jarr, beloved Las Vegas entertainer, has died at 83 from pneumonia complications, leaving behind a rich legacy in the city’s lounge scene.
Las Vegas: Cook E. Jarr, a true icon of the lounge scene, has passed away at 83. His wife, Stacy, shared that he died from pneumonia complications on Tuesday afternoon.
In recent years, Jarr faced various health issues. His last public appearance was at a Tom Jones concert on September 28, a friendship that spanned over three decades.
“Cook E. was one of a kind,” Stacy said. “Everybody loved him.” He was a staple in Vegas lounges from the 1980s to the mid-2010s, originally hailing from Philadelphia.
Jarr made his Vegas debut at Nero’s Nook in 1970 and moved to the city in 1982, performing at the Sands with his band, The Krums. He later headlined at many famous hotels, including the Tropicana and Caesars Palace.
He was known for his vibrant performances, often at smaller venues like Carnaval Court and the Piano Bar at Harrah’s, where he announced his retirement in 2014.
However, he made a comeback in 2016 at Napoleon’s in Paris Las Vegas until the pandemic ended that gig. Jarr was recognized for his signature look and lively performances, often using a beat box.
His crowd-pleasing calls, like “Who’s better than Elvis? Nobody!” and his rendition of “Viva Las Vegas,” made him a favorite among fans. Cook E. Jarr will be missed, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of many.
