The world bids farewell to Tom Lehrer, the legendary satirical songwriter and mathematician, who passed away at the age of 97. Known for his razor-sharp wit and biting humor, Lehrer left an indelible mark on American comedy and Jewish cultural expression.

Lehrer’s songs tackled everything from nuclear proliferation to grammar with unmatched cleverness. His legacy includes “Hanukkah in Santa Monica,” a hilarious ode to Jewish life in Southern California that continues to bring joy every holiday season.

A Harvard-trained mathematician and occasional professor, Lehrer famously retired from public performance in the early 1970s, but his influence never faded. He inspired generations of comedians, musicians, and free thinkers who admired his fearless satire and lyrical genius.

Though famously private, Lehrer embraced his Jewish heritage with quiet pride and cultural insight, weaving references into his work that resonated with Jewish audiences around the world.

He is remembered not only as a pioneer of musical comedy, but as a cultural icon who reminded us how to laugh, especially at ourselves.

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Read the full article from the original source:
Jewish Telegraphic Agency – Tom Lehrer, satirist who sang about ‘Hanukkah in Santa Monica,’ dies at 97

Source: JTA, July 2025