
NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- Comedian Gilbert Gottfried has died following a "long illness," his family said Tuesday. He was 67.

"We are heartbroken to announce the passing of out beloved Gilbert Gottfried after a long illness," read a statement about the Brooklyn-born actor. "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. Love, the Gottfried family."
One of the first to take to social media to express their condolensces was actor Jason Alexander, who wrote, "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."
Gottfried had roles in several films, including "Beverly Hills II," "Aladdin" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," and he was the voice of the Aflac duck. He was also a "Saturday Night Live" cast member during it's sixth season.