People react to death in diverse ways. The news of Tim O’Malley’s passing on May 11 at age 68 due to natural causes brought shock and tears across the city. Soon, those tears were replaced by smiles as people remembered O’Malley, one of the city’s notably funny figures. Known for his memorable performances and teaching at The Second City, he also inspired others by sharing personal experiences.
Visual artist Pamela Staker, O’Malley’s partner, remarked on their strong bond. “We met in 2005,” she shared. “We chose not to marry formally, but rather to live as life partners, building the life we wanted together.” Their deep affection and playful connection were evident to anyone who knew them.
Staker described O’Malley as fiercely protective, loyal, and loving. “He helped us navigate life’s challenges with his unique energy. Although known for his humor and South Side charisma, his tenderness and vulnerability touched my heart,” she explained.
Early Life and Career
O’Malley hailed from the Beverly neighborhood, one of 11 children of Thomas Aloysius and Mary Frances O’Malley. All eleven children attended college. It was at Southern Illinois University that he discovered his passion for acting. By 1986, he was touring with The Second City and later joined the resident company alongside performers like Bonnie Hunt and Chris Farley.
Yet, as his colleagues advanced to success, O’Malley’s path took a darker turn into addiction. “I always thought my career would advance,” he reflected years ago. “Seeing others succeed fueled my alcohol and drug use.” In 1993, after leaving The Second City, O’Malley lived with his father and battled substance abuse while bartending.
With encouragement from his family, he underwent a 90-day rehabilitation program. By 1996, he was teaching at The Second City Training Center, influencing new performers.
“In improv, you learn that the group is greater than the sum of its parts,” O’Malley shared, illustrating his teaching philosophy.
Impactful Contributions
O’Malley’s autobiographical play “Godshow” was a significant success in the early 2000s, performed at various Chicago venues. The performance is still accessible on YouTube, showcasing his influence on audiences and students alike.
In 2012, he founded “Immediacy in Effective Communication,” an innovative treatment program at Gateway’s West Side facility. The program used improvisation to aid addiction recovery for men with challenging pasts.
O’Malley continued to connect with many of these men, valuing the role he played in their recovery journeys.
Legacy and Reflections
O’Malley endeavored to help others struggling with addiction, including his friend Chris Farley. Shortly before Farley’s death, O’Malley offered him support, hoping to guide him toward recovery. Although Farley didn’t survive, O’Malley’s commitment to those in need remained strong.
O’Malley noted, “Addiction isn’t limited to celebrities. It affects people in all professions.” He highlighted the importance of acknowledging everyday individuals battling substance abuse, whose struggles often go unnoticed.