American actor and standup comedian Gilbert Jeremy Gottfried died on Tuesday due to a heart condition, he was 67.
“Gilbert Gottfried, the actor and legendary standup comic known for his raw, scorched voice and crude jokes, has died. He was 67,” AP News Tweeted.
Gottfried, who began his career in entertainment at the age of 15 and became popular for his role in ‘Aladdin’ for voicing Iago parrot and has died, his family broke the heartbreaking news in a formal statement.
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Gilbert Gottfried after a long illness,” reads the family’s statement. “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 ended with grieving family members saying, “Although today is a sad day for all of us, please keep laughing as loud as possible in Gilbert’s honor.”
The late comedian was survived by his partner, Dara Kravitz, and two children 12 year old Max and 14-year-old Lily.
Publicist and longtime friend of the deceased artist, Glenn Schwartz, explained to ABC News that Gilbert Gottfried died on Tuesday due to a heart condition called myotonic dystrophy type II.
Popular for his gravelly voice, unwavering ability to ‘go there’, and potential to tackle content that only a handful of comedians would have, Gottfried kick started his career back in the 1970s in New York.
The American actor, who was also famous for his crude humor has served as a cast member for 6 straight seasons of “Saturday Night Live”. He also featured in 1987’s “Beverly Hills Cop II.”
Very few people would know that Gottfried also voiced Aflac duck in insurance company commercials until 2011.
After his death news went viral, fans and fellow celebs started outpouring tributes for the deceased comedian, with “Seinfeld’s” Jason Alexander saying, “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.”
