Actor and comedian Gilbert Gottfried’s death on Tuesday reportedly stemmed from complications from muscular dystrophy.
Rolling Stone reported that “an additional statement from Gottfried’s longtime friend and publicist, Glenn Schwartz, said he suffered from Recurrent Ventricular Tachycardia due to Myotonic Dystrophy type II.”
Gottfried’s family broke the news in a statement that they released on his Twitter account, which stated: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Gilbert Gottfried after a long illness.”
“In addition to being the most iconic voice in comedy, Gilbert was a wonderful husband, brother, friend and father to his two young children,” the statement continued. “Although today is a sad day for all of us, please keep laughing as loud as possible in Gilbert’s honor.”
Notable initial reactions to Gilbert’s death included:
- Jason Alexander, actor: “Gilbert Gottfried made me laugh at times when laughter did not come easily. What a gift. I did not know him well but I loved what he shared with me. My best wishes and sympathy to his family. “
- Dana Loesch, radio host: “Oh no! RIP to a legend.”
- Caleb Howe, Mediaite: “Oh wow. Gilbert Gottfried was one of the all-time greats.”
- Bill Motz, Disney producer: “We had the honor of working with Gilbert on #TheReturnofJafar and the #Aladdin TV series. He kept us laughing–and even brought a tear to our eyes a time or two–as he brought Iago to life. Much love to the Gottfried family and gratitude for sharing him with us.”
- Ariel Helwani, journalist: “What a bummer. What a legend. First time I saw Gilbert was in Problem Child. Iconic personality. He was so good on the Stern Show. May he rest in peace.”
- Brian O’Halloran, actor: “I’m so terribly sad to hear of the passing of @RealGilbert . Gilbert was a hilarious comedian, but very much a gentleman in real life. I’ve been fortunate to have been a part of a few projects with him including the Clerks Animated Series where he voiced a few classic characters.”
- Tom Bergeron, entertainer: “Heartbroken. Too many goodbyes this year.”
- Jon Stewart, comedian: “RIP Gilbert. Opening for Gilbert Gottfried at Carolines and Princeton Catch was one of the great thrills of my early stand up life. He could leave you gasping for breath…just indescribably unusually hilarious…Damn.”
- Bill Burr, comedian: “Rest In Peace Gilbert Gottfried! First time I saw him live he did his Jackie Kennedy bit: ‘Jackie do you remember where you were…’ in front of drunk Bruins fans at Nicks.”
This is a developing news story; refresh the page for updates.