Amy Schumer pays tribute to ‘legend’ Gilbert Gottfried after comedian’s death

Stars took to social media on Tuesday to pay their respects to comedian Gilbert Gottfried after it was confirmed the star has died aged 67

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Gilbert Gottfried jokes before Comedy Central Roast in 2009

Amy Schumer led the tributes for comedian Gilbert Gottfried after the star’s death was confirmed on Tuesday.

Gilbert’s family confirmed the sad news on his Twitter account, saying they were “heartbroken” to lose him.

According to his publicist and longtime friend, the comedian died of recurrent ventricular tachycardia due to myotonic dystrophy type II, a condition that affects the heart.

The late star was best known for his voice work in the classic Disney film Aladdin, while other notable films included Look Who’s Talking, Problem Child and Beverly Hills Cop II.

Oscar co-host Amy, 40, wrote on her Instagram Stories: “Gilbert was so cute. Really nice, a legend.”

Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane also paid tribute, tweeting, “Gilbert Gottfried made me laugh so hard that day on set I could barely do my job.

“A totally original comic and an equally kind and humble guy behind the scenes. He will be missed.”

Oscar winner Marlee Matlin fondly recalled times the couple had met, including the time the stand-up comic “played a prank” on her.

She said: “I am so sad to read of the death of Gilbert Gottfried. Funny, politically incorrect, but a softie on the inside.”

Posting the words alongside a picture of them together, she continued: “We have met many times; he even pranked me on a plane replacing my interpreter @655jack (they are like twins).

“Sending love to Dara and his children.”

US actor Mel Brooks tweeted: “So sorry to hear of Gilbert Gottfried’s passing. Really a funny, funny guy. So unique. He will be sorely missed.”

Fellow actor Rob Schneider added: “Gilbert Gottfried made me laugh so hard I fell on the floor and couldn’t breathe.

“Fearless, original, spontaneous, outrageous, brilliant and incredibly generous to all his fellow comedians, who could only marvel at his unparalleled wit and performance.

“Thanks G for being so nice.”

And comedian Stephen Colbert also wrote: “It was an honor to have met and interviewed and done something with one of the greats. Rest in peace Gilbert Gottfried. #hardblackwax.”

The news of Gottfried’s death was announced on his social media page in a statement that read: “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 continue to laugh as loudly as you can in Gilbert’s honor.”

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