remembering danny gans

The Man of Many Voices ends his run on the Strip far too soon.

By CHARLIE JOHNSTON | July/August 2009

Photo: PR

“One of the most unique human beings and entertainers in the world has been taken from us,” says Steve Wynn of the unexpected death of entertainer Danny Gans. Gans, 52, passed away in his sleep on May 1.

Unlike many entertainment icons, Gans did not spend his childhood dreaming of the spotlight, but of the dugout. After being named an All-American at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, he played in the minor leagues for the Chicago White Sox before being permanently benched by injury. With the support of his friends and family, Gans turned to his talents for singing, comedy, and impersonations. After 15 years of honing his skills at various venues around the country, Gans landed in Las Vegas. It was here that his entertainment career blossomed.

From his 1996 Vegas debuts at the Stratosphere and Rio to his eight years at The Mirage and his final performances at Encore Las Vegas (owned by Wynn), Gans tallied 12 consecutive Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year awards and Nevada Magazine’s 2008 Best Impersonator. In addition to his live entertainment career, Gans held roles in the film, “Bull Durham,” and in two TV series, “Duet,” and its spin-off, “Open House.”

“I was shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of such a unique and gifted talent,” says longtime Las Vegas performer Cher.

Mourners can send donations in Gans’ name to Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation, 6070 S. Eastern Ave., Suite 200, Las Vegas, NV 89119.