Gilbert Gottfried comedian and actor dies at the age of

Gilbert Gottfried, comedian and actor, dies at the age of 67

(CNN) — Gilbert Gottfried, a comedian and film and television actor with a distinctively memorable voice, has died after a long illness, his family announced Tuesday.

He was 67 years old.

“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 hard as you can in Gilbert’s honor.” wrote his family in a Twitter post.

CNN has contacted Gottfried’s publicist for further comment.

Gilbert Gottfried

Gilbert Gottfried, a comedian and film and television actor with a distinctively memorable voice, died on April 12 at the age of 67 after a long illness.