The founder of the American Comedy Store, Mitzi Shore, has died. She was 87.

A statement has been issued.

“It is with great sadness and very heavy hearts that we report the passing of Mitzi Shore, the legendary Godmother of the world famous Comedy Store,” the statement said. “Mitzi was an extraordinary businesswoman and decades ahead of her time who cultivated and celebrated the artistry of stand-up comedy. She was also a loving mother, not only to her own four children, but to the myriad of comedians who adored her.  She leaves behind an indelible mark and legacy and has helped change the face of comedy. We will all miss her dearly.”

Earlier this week her son, comedian Pauly Shore, tweeted: "The reason why I have been Canceling shows and have been laying low on Social is that mom Mitzi. Shore has been on hospice let’s all prey she when she goes to heaven she go peaceful I know she was loved by many of you."

The Comedy Store in Los Angeles, which pre-dated the London Comedy Store and was a separate business, will be closed today (Wednesday). Shore co-founded the club in 1972 with her then-husband Sammy Shore, and later became its owner. Top stand-ups who cut their teeth there over the years include Jim Carrey, Chris Rock, Jay Leno and Robin Williams.

The club revolutionised the live comedy scene in America and in 1979 British insurance salesman Peter Rosengard visited it and liked what he saw. He returned to London determined to open an equivalent here and eventually set up the London Comedy Store with Don Ward, which Ward still runs today. So in effect Shore had a hand in kick-starting the UK alternative comedy scene too.