The shocking news of Gilbert Gottfried's passing has many of his famous friends paying tribute. According to a statement released by the family on Tuesday, the legendary comedian died after a "long illness" at the age of 67. Because Gottfried has long been a favorite in the comedy world, there are many comedians and Hollywood stars weighing in on the news, showing just how much the Problem Child and Aladdin star was loved.
"Gilbert Gottfried made me laugh at times when laughter did not come easily," writes Seinfeld star Jason Alexander. "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."
Actress Laraine Newman posted an image of herself alongside Gottfried on the set of the sequel Problem Child 2; both had played antagonists in the film. Newman wrote, "On the set of Problem Child 2. Dear, sweet, hilarious Gilbert."
"He was a unique voice in comedy on so many levels. Unpredictable, one-of-a-kind, hilarious & irreplaceable! Thank you for the lifetime of laughs, sir," says Star Wars legend Mark Hamill.
"I am so sad to read about the passing of Gilbert Gottfried. Funny, politically incorrect but a softie on the inside," says Marlee Matlin, sharing a fun story about the late comic. "We met many times; he even pranked me on a plane, replacing my interpreter (they're like twins). Sending love to Dara & his children."
Comedians Are Mourning the Loss of a Comedy Legend
It's been a difficult time for comedy fans with so many legends lost in such a short period of time. Norm Macdonald passed away in September, followed by Bob Saget in January; Macdonald and Gottfried both stood out as favorites at Comedy Central's Roast of Bob Saget in 2008. Louie Anderson also passed away weeks after Saget, and Gottfried mourned the loss at the time. Gottfried's fellow comedians are now mourning his loss as well, another significant blow to comedy with a beloved funnyman gone too soon.
"RIP Gilbert," tweeted Jon Stewart. "Opening for Gilbert Gottfried at Carolines and Princeton Catch was one of the great thrills of my early stand up life. He could leave you gasping for breath…just indescribably unusually hilarious…Damn."
Bill Burr tweeted, "Rest In Peace Gilbert Gottfried! First time I saw him live he did his Jackie Kennedy bit: 'Jackie do you remember where you were…' in front of drunk Bruins fans at Nicks."
"I saw Gilbert perform in 1985 and when he entered to applause he said, 'Thank you, thank you very much,'" Conan O'Brien said. "He then continued to say 'thank you' repeatedly for ten full minutes. It was the nerviest, funniest thing I had seen. So sorry to lose this sweet and delightfully funny man."
"Sad to hear of the passing of the groundbreaking and legendary Gilbert Gottfried," Tom Green tweeted, posting a photo with Gottfried. "Here was the last time I saw you in Miami. My condolences to the family and friends of this genius comic, artist, and provocateur. Comedy mourns tonight."
There are many, many more that keep coming in as more fans and famous friends of Gottfried pay their respects. Rest in peace, Gilbert Gottfried, as your legacy lives on forever. You can see more of the celebrity reactions to the sad news of Gottfried's passing below.