The loud, quirky comedian Gilbert Gottfried has died at the age of 67. In addition to stand-up, Gottfried was in a number of films and even part of the cast of Saturday Night Live.
He had apparently been battling muscular dystrophy for some time.
Jordan Moreau reports at Variety:
Gilbert Gottfried, Comedian and ‘Aladdin’ Star, Dies at 67Gilbert Gottfried, the comedian, “Aladdin” star and owner of the most recognizable voice in Hollywood, has died after battling a long illness, his family announced Tuesday. He was 67.His publicist told the Washington Post that he died of myotonic dystrophy type 2, a form of muscular dystrophy.“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. Although today is a sad day for all of us, please keep laughing as loud as possible in Gilbert’s honor,” his family wrote on Twitter.Many people in Hollywood, including comedians Jason Alexander, Dane Cook and more, paid tribute to Gottfried after the shocking news of his death. “Gilbert Gottfried was never not funny,” wrote Cook. “He was a lovely guy, always friendly and made many people happy.”Gottfried was known for his crude humor, political incorrectness and shrill voice, which helped give life to a number of animated characters, such as Iago the parrot in Disney’s “Aladdin,” the robotic bird Digit in PBS Kids’ “Cyberchase” and the Aflac duck in commercials for the insurance company.
Other entertainers remembered Gottfried on Twitter:
In this clip from the Joe Rogan podcast, Gottfried talks about his less than great experience on SNL:
My personal favorite, was his appearance in Beverly Hills Cop II:
Rest in peace, Gilbert. Thanks for the laughs.
Featured image via YouTube.
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