Renowned actor and comedian Gilbert Gottfried, 67, has passed away on Tuesday, April 12, after a gruelling battle with a long-term illness.

As confirmed by Gottfried’s close friend and publicist, Glenn Schwartz, the famed comedian died at 2:35pm on Tuesday as a result of the heart disorder Recurrent Ventricular Tachycardia caused by Myotonic Dystrophy type II.

Gottfried’s family took to Twitter on Wednesday morning, April 13, to announce the sad news, encouraging fans to “keep laughing as loud as possible” in honour of the late comedian’s incredible legacy.

“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Gilbert Gottfried after a long illness,” the family wrote.

“In addition to being the most iconic voice in comedy, Gilbert was a wonderful husband, brother, friend and father to his two young children.”

Fans, friends and celebrities alike were quick to respond to the tragic news, offering their condolences to the late comedian and his family as they remembered Gottfried’s successful career and recalled his funniest moments.

“My wife & I met him after a show. I shook his hand and said, “I just want you to know this is one of the greatest nights of my life.” He said, “Wow. You must have a pretty terrible life.” #RIP to one of the funniest of all time,” wrote one fan.

This is crushing. One of the best to do stand-up and an equally great man. Rest easy Gilbert. You’ll live forever in our memories. https://t.co/Wbs2xqTriY

— C. Ethan Stewart ???????????? (@CharlesStew_Art) April 12, 2022

Sorry for your loss. This will forever be one of the finest videos of all time thanks to him. Hopefully everyone will get a laugh out of his work today as I’m sure he would have wanted. https://t.co/yOvaK7vtQA

— Aston Martin (@AstonMartinRun) April 12, 2022

My deepest condolences. Gilbert and I did a movie, as sentient plants in a sci-fi spoof. He was a JOY— fun, easygoing, a pleasure to joke with, eat with, and talk with, and he was HILARIOUS. He was also generous enough to let others be funny. May his memory be a blessing. pic.twitter.com/3idE86xub5

— Peter Tedeschi (@PeterTedeschi) April 12, 2022

Gilbert Gottfried made me laugh at times when laughter did not come easily. 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. #ripGilbertGottfried

— jason alexander (@IJasonAlexander) April 12, 2022

The comedic icon performed stand-up comedy for an incredible 50 years, having first begun his career doing amateur stand-up in New York at the age of 15.

Gottfried’s representative described him as the “comedian’s comedian”, given “his live performances put aside political correctness while he delivers jokes that know no boundaries”.

Gottfried was best known for his roles in Beverly Hills Cop II, The Aristocrats, Problem Child and for his voiceover role as the parrot, Lago, in the popular children’s film Aladdin and the King of Thieves.

He also hosted his own podcast called Gilbert Gottfried’s Amazing Colossal Podcast from 2014 until his unfortunate death, where he interviewed celebrities and discussed classic movies with notable figures in the music, acting and comedy industry.