When Curly suffered a debilitating stroke in 1946, Shemp rejoined the act. Shemp was later replaced by brother Curly Howard (born Jerome Lester Horwitz) in 1933. The act originally featured Moe Howard (born Harry Moses Horwitz), brother Shemp Howard (born Samuel Horwitz, and longtime friend Larry Fine (born Louis Feinberg). They were commonly known by their first names: 'Moe, Larry, and Curly', and 'Moe, Larry, and Shemp', among other lineups. The Three Stooges were an iconic American vaudeville and comedy act of the early to mid–20th century best known for their numerous short subject films. L to R: Moe Howard, Curly Howard and Larry Fine. 'Official' Three Stooges logo since April 22.