It’s with a heavy heart that I report Gilbert Gottfried has passed away.
The legendary comedian and actor transitioned to his heavenly home on Tuesday (April 12) after battling a long illness, according to his family.
He was 67.
The Gottfried family released the following statement via his official Twitter account on Tuesday:
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.
Love, the Gottfried family
See the original post below.
Gilbert’s longtime friend and publicist, Glenn Schwartz told NBC News that the comedian and actor died Tuesday afternoon from recurrent ventricular tachycardia due to myotonic dystrophy type II.
Myotonic dystrophy type 2 is an inherited muscular dystrophy that affects the muscles and other body systems (e.g., heart, eyes, and pancreas).
It is characterized by prolonged muscle tensing (myotonia) as well as muscle weakness, pain, and stiffness.
Gilbert’s last social media post was in support of his fellow comedian Chris Rock.
My sincerest condolences and prayers to the Gottfried family.
May Gilbert Gottfried Rest In Peace.
