Remembering Tim O’Malley: A Life of Humor and Healing

Tim O’Malley’s death on May 11 at the age of 68 brought shock and tears to the city. Yet, smiles soon followed as people recalled not only his humor but also his profound impact as a performer and teacher at The Second City. Pamela Staker, a talented visual artist and O’Malley’s partner, reflects on their life together. “We met in 2005,” she said, “and decided we didn’t need a piece of paper to build a fully committed life together.”

Staker describes their relationship as playful and deeply affectionate. “Tim was fiercely protective and loving. He had an energy that helped us face life’s challenges.” O’Malley’s humor was known citywide, yet Staker emphasizes a different side. “For me, it was his tenderness and vulnerability that touched my heart.”

Early Life and Career

Born in Beverly, O’Malley was the 10th of 11 children of Thomas Aloysius and Mary Frances O’Malley. All attended college, with Tim discovering acting at Southern Illinois University. By 1986, he joined The Second City’s touring company. He later performed with notable talents like Bonnie Hunt and Chris Farley. However, his dreams faded as addiction took hold. “I watched as others moved on to ‘Saturday Night Live’ and elsewhere. I wondered when it would be my turn.”

Struggles with Addiction

In 1993, addiction led O’Malley to quit Second City. He moved in with his father after his mother’s death, worked as a bartender, and fell deeper into substance abuse. A turning point came when his father and sister convinced him to seek help. A 90-day program at Gateway Foundation set him on a path to sobriety. By 1996, he joined The Second City Training Center, impacting a new generation of performers.

Legacy of Teaching and Support

O’Malley’s autobiographical play, “Godshow,” was a hit at venues like Second City and iO Theater. He also created a unique program at Gateway, blending improv techniques for treatment. “In improv, you learn the group is greater than the sum of its parts,” he explained. His impact on those in recovery was profound. “To be part of their lives and recovery is a great reward.”

Helping Others Overcome Addiction

After achieving sobriety, O’Malley tried to help former cast mate Chris Farley. In the days before Farley’s death, they spoke frequently. O’Malley offered support, yet Farley succumbed to an overdose on December 18, 1997. “His death just wrecked me,” O’Malley confessed. He later reflected, “High-profile deaths draw attention, but addiction affects all professions. It’s an overlooked tragedy for everyday individuals.”

Throughout his life, Tim O’Malley remained a figure who uplifted others with humor and empathy. His contributions to the arts and recovery communities leave a lasting legacy.