Ralphie May, born in Tennessee, developed a passion for comedy at an early age. By the age of nine, he knew he wanted to make people laugh, and his journey into the world of stand-up began just a few years later. At 13, he got his first taste of performance during a talent show organized by a church youth group. May's life took a drastic turn at 16 when he was involved in a severe car accident, which left him with 42 broken bones and in a coma for 10 days. Though the accident had long-lasting effects, with May stating he could feel its impact on rainy days, it did not dampen his spirit or determination to pursue a career in comedy. At 17, May's comedic talents were recognized when he won a radio talent contest, earning the opportunity to open for the legendary comedian Sam Kinison. Kinison's advice to May, though initially leading to a rough stage experience, ultimately encouraged him to pursue comedy more seriously. Kinison inspired May to move to Houston, a vibrant comedy scene, although May ended up finding a foothold at Houston's Comedy Showcase after the closure of Kinison's recommended club. Ralphie May gained national attention through his participation in the first season of NBC's "Last Comic Standing." Despite becoming an audience favorite, May finished as the runner-up, a result he attributed to concerns about his weight, which had reached up to 800 pounds at one point in his life. The show helped May build a broader audience, leading to his first hour special, “Just Correct,” which included footage from his performances on the USO Tour in Iraq. May's subsequent work continued to resonate with audiences. His second special, “Girth of a Nation,” recorded in Knoxville, Tennessee, aired on Comedy Central in 2006. In 2008, May's comedic prowess was once again acknowledged when he was named one of Variety's 10 Comics to Watch, the same year he released "Austin-tatious," filmed in Austin, Texas at the Paramount Theater. May was known for his commitment to originality in his material, often checking with fellow comedians to avoid similarities with existing jokes. His career faced challenges when he contracted pneumonia in 2011, leading to serious health complications including a pulmonary embolism. These health scares prompted lifestyle changes, with May quitting smoking pot and taking measures to manage his weight, eventually reducing it to under 400 pounds. On a personal front, May married Lahna Turner, a fellow comedian, in 2005, and they had two children before divorcing in 2015. Tragically, Ralphie May passed away on October 6, 2017, from cardiac arrest, exacerbated by pneumonia, just days after being named Casino Comedian of the Year. Despite his health struggles, May continued performing, leaving behind a legacy of humor and resilience.