Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes) Denis Leary
Feb 4, 2026
Denis Leary, comedian and actor known for Rescue Me and The Sandlot, and founder of the Leary Firefighters Foundation. He recalls growing up working class in Worcester, school performances that launched his career, memories of filming with actors like Peter Falk and Clint Eastwood, and the origins and growth of his firefighters charity after tragic fires.
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From Tragedy To A Foundation
- Denis Leary recounted the 1999 Worcester Cold Storage Warehouse fire that killed multiple firefighters he knew.
- He started the Leary Firefighters Foundation to support grieving families and underfunded departments afterward.
Worcester Neighborhood Food Memories
- Leary shared childhood stories of Main South Worcester, three-deckers, and neighborhood food culture shaping his humor.
- He recalled his mother's failed attempt at making Italian spaghetti that became a lasting family memory.
Peter Falk's On-Set Generosity
- Denis Leary described rehearsing with Peter Falk on Joe Mantegna's Lakeboat and Falk insisting on rehearsal routines.
- Falk invited Leary to his home and mentored him about consistent morning meetups during filming.
