Mike DeStefano was a singular and potent voice in the New York comedy scene, known for his fearless approach to stand-up comedy. Born and raised in The Bronx, Mike had a raw, unfiltered style that delved into themes most avoided, weaving tragedy into humor with remarkable skill. His comedy was both disturbing and refreshing, offering deep belly laughs that resonated with truth. Mike's journey into comedy began in an unusual place—rehab. Starting at a young age, he struggled with heroin addiction, which led to a tumultuous life. By 31, after getting clean, he was working as a drug counselor in Florida. It was at a convention where he offered to entertain the audience that he discovered his gift for stand-up, thanks to an enthusiastic response that propelled him toward a career in comedy. A regular at top New York clubs, Mike became a well-known figure in the comedy circuit. His talents extended to radio and television, with appearances on the Opie and Anthony Show, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, and Comedy Central’s Live at Gotham. He also showcased his comedic chops at prestigious events like HBO’s Aspen Comedy Festival and the Just for Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal. He gained national attention as a participant on NBC's Last Comic Standing, where he impressively placed fourth out of thousands of contestants. Beyond the comedy clubs, Mike dedicated his talents to recovery communities, performing at over 100 recovery events worldwide. His performances at gatherings such as the World Narcotics Anonymous Convention in Atlanta and Friends of Bill and Lois in New York were testament to his commitment to helping others through laughter and personal connection. Mike DeStefano’s life and work continue to inspire those battling addiction, proving the healing power of comedy.