Movies & TV / News
Comedy Legend Gilbert Gottfried Passes Away at 67
Image Credit: Paramount Pictures
Gilbert Gottfried, the comedy icon who voiced Iago in Aladdin among his many roles, has passed away. Gottfried’s family confirmed in a statement to TMZ that the comedian passed away on Tuesday after a long illness. TMZ notes that Gottfried’s rep told them he died from ventricular tachycardia due to myotonic dystrophy type II, a heart anomaly. He was 67.
The statement from Gottfried’s family reads:
“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.”
Gottfried was best known for his stand-up comedy, which utilized his distinctive shrill voice and take-no-prisoners humor. He began doing stand-up in 1970 at the age of 15, and became known around New York as the “comedian’s comedian.” His work parlayed into a 12-episode stint on Saturday Night Live during the show’s sixth season in 1980. He had a breakthrough in 1987, appearing on The Cosby Show and then in Beverly Hills Cop II as accountant Sidney Bernstein, which garnered him mainstream attention.
Gottfried continued to make memorable appearances in films including Problem Child and The Adventures of Ford Fairlane in 1990, as well as Problem Child 2 the following year. 1992 saw what is likely his most famous role, voicing the evil parrot Iago in Disney’s Aladdin. Gottfried made great use of his famous voice in the role, one he reprised in straight-to-video sequels The Return of Jafar and Aladdin and the King of Thieves. He would reprise the fan-favorite role several times afterward on TV and in more STV films.
In addition to that role, Gottfried’s famous voice gave life to the Aflac Duck, Mister Mxyzptlk in Superman: The Animated Series, Kraang Subprime in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and much more.
On behalf of 411, our condolences to the family, friends, and many fans of Mr. Gottfried. The comedy world would not be the same without him.
