Curly Howard left The Three Stooges due to a debilitating stroke he suffered in 1946 during the filming of the short "Half-Wits Holiday." This stroke ended his ability to perform, forcing him to retire from the act. Despite hopes for his recovery, Curly never returned to the Stooges and his health continued to decline until he passed away in 1952. The stress of his personal life, heavy drinking, and a wild lifestyle contributed to his poor health and the eventual stroke that ended his career with the Three Stooges. After Curly's stroke, his brother Shemp Howard rejoined the group to fill the gap left by Curly's departure.