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.
A rare comedian who made a career out of telling dirty jokes while also having a run in some of the biggest family-friendly films and TV shows, Gottfried was also a prolific performer.
In New York City, he began doing standup at 15 years old. After years of being known for his talents, Saturday Night Live producers hired him as a cast member. He appeared in twelve episodes in the sixth season. He didn't use his voice at the time, but he got the last laugh.
His career began with small roles on TV shows like Alan Thicke and The Cosby Show. He frequently appeared on The Howard Stern Show but was rumored to have been banned for allegedly spitting on food.
After his film career took off, Gottfried began doing voiceover work, using the exaggerated, shrill voice he became known for. Iago, the villain in Disney's Aladdin, was his biggest voice acting role. He voiced Berkleley Beetle in The Fairly OddParents.
Even though he got steady work in Hollywood, he never gave up on his career as a comedian. He appeared on many roasts, including the ones for Donald Trump. He leaves behind a legacy of popularizing the time-honored comedy tradition of the "Aristocrats" joke. The roast for Hugh Hefner took place less than a month after 9/11.
After making a controversial joke about the attacks, everyone was in low spirits, but he managed to make the room laugh uncontrollably with his delivery of the famously filthy comedy routine.
He voiced God on Adult Swim show Smiling Friends. How appropriate.
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