Shore began his career doing stand-up comedy with Shecky Greene in the Catskill Mountains.[5] He was chosen, in 1969, to open for Elvis Presley’s comeback performance at the International Hotel, Las Vegas. He then opened for Elvis’ road shows until 1972.[6] Shore continued to perform comedy, opening for Tony Orlando, Tony Bennett, Barbra Streisand, Sammy Davis Jr. and others.[7] Shore served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.[8][9]
On April 7, 1972, he founded the Comedy Store with his writing partner Rudy De Luca.[5] In 1974, his ex-wife, Mitzi, became the owner of the club.[10] The club launched the careers of many comedians including Rodney Dangerfield, David Letterman, Eddie Murphy, Robin Williams, Jim Carrey, and Joe Rogan, also including his own son, Pauly.[11]
Shore appeared in many films including The Bellboy with Jerry Lewis and both Life Stinks and History of the World Part 1 from Mel Brooks.[12] He appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show and was on Sanford and Son.[13]
Shore was voted Best Comedy Act in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and the Los Angeles Board of Supervisors named a day after him on July 24, 1990. He appeared at Harrah's Casinos and hotels more than any other entertainer.[14]
