Gilbert Gottfried, the legendary comedian who has voiced and appeared in numerous films, has died at the age of 67. Gottfried’s family confirmed the news of his death. Gottfried’s family said that he had been battling a long illness. The family’s statement did not disclose what the illness was.
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Gilbert Gottfried after a long illness,” the tweet said. “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.”
— Gilbert Gottfried (@RealGilbert) April 12, 2022
Born on February 28, 1955, Gottfried was known for his shrill voice and crude humor as a stand-up, which made him a popular figure at roasts. Gottfried appeared on Saturday Night Live and, throughout the years, made numerous appearances on the Howard Stern Show.
In addition to his standup, Gottfried voiced Iago in Aladdin and appeared in Beverly Hills Cop II, Problem Child, Dr. Doolittle, Hot to Trot and many other films. He also voiced the Aflac duck character in his unmistakable voice for the series of commercials.
In recent years, Gottfried hosted Gilbert Gottfried’s Amazing Colossal Podcast and in 2017, he was the subject of a documentary on his life titled Gilbert.
Gottfried never shied away from controversy. He got into hot water at the 1991 Emmy Awards after making jokes about Paul Reubens after he was caught masturbating in a movie theater. Gottfried also was admonished for his jokes on Twitter about the 2011 tsunami in Japan, which caused him to lose his job at the time.
He is survived by his wife and two children.
