Comedian Gilbert Gottfried Dead At 67

Gilbert Gottfried / Twitter

A beloved comedian has told his last joke.

Gilbert Gottfried passed away on Tuesday (April 12) after “a long illness,” according to a statement from his family.

“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Gilbert Gottfried,” the statement on the comedian’s Twitter read. “In addition to being the most iconic voice in comedy, Gilbert was a wonderful husband, 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.”

NBC News reports that his longtime friend and publicist Glenn Schwartz has revealed that Gottfried died from Recurrent Ventricular Tachycardia due to Myotonic Dystrophy type II.

Gottfried is known for his exaggerated and shrill voice, as well as his crude humor. Despite his dirty comedy, he has voiced several characters in children’s programs such as Iago in Aladdin, Kraang Subprime in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles television show, and Digit LeBoid on the PBS Kids show Cyberchase.

Gottfried is survived by his wife Dara Kravitz, and their two children Lily and Max. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this time.

See some reaction to his death below.

Watch some of his best moments from Comedy Central jokes over the years.