Gilbert Gottfried, a comedic genius whose career spanned over four decades, left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Known for his unmistakable voice and sharp wit, Gottfried entertained millions as a stand-up comedian, voice actor, and television personality. Fans of Saturday Night Live will remember him fondly as a cast member who brought laughter and joy to audiences across the globe. On April 12, 2022, the comedy world lost a legend when Gilbert passed away at the age of 67 after battling a long-term illness. His family shared the heartbreaking news with the world, leaving fans mourning the loss of one of comedy's brightest stars.
In a heartfelt statement posted to Gilbert’s social media accounts, his family expressed their sorrow while celebrating his life and legacy. "We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Gilbert Gottfried after a long illness," the statement read. "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." Gilbert’s two children, Lily Aster Gottfried and Max Aaron Gottfried, will continue to carry on their father's memory.
Gilbert's cause of death was revealed to be recurrent ventricular tachycardia due to myotonic dystrophy type II, according to his close friend and publicist, Glenn Schwartz. This rare condition ultimately claimed the life of a man whose humor and charm touched so many lives.
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Gilbert’s longtime friend and podcast cohost, Frank Santopadre, shared a touching tribute to the comedic icon. "Gilbert’s brand of humor was brash, shocking, and frequently offensive, but the man behind the jokes was anything but," Santopadre said. "Those who loved and knew him were fortunate enough to share his orbit and knew a person who was sweet, sensitive, surprisingly shy, and filled with a childlike sense of playfulness and wonder. He’ll be dearly missed by family, friends, fans, and comedy lovers the world over. To quote Gilbert himself, 'Too soon!'"
Gilbert Gottfried's Family Legacy
Who Are Gilbert Gottfried’s Children?
Gilbert’s life was centered around bringing joy and laughter to those around him, including his two cherished children and his wife, Dara Kravitz. The couple tied the knot in 2007, and their love story quickly expanded when they welcomed their first child, daughter Lily, that same year. Two years later, in 2009, the family grew again with the arrival of their son, Max. Gilbert’s family was a source of immense pride and happiness for him, and he often credited them as his greatest inspiration.
Gilbert’s Daughter Lily: A Chip Off the Old Block
Fans of the legendary comedian may recall the Gottfried family’s appearance on an episode of Celebrity Wife Swap in 2013. During the show, the couple shared how they met at a Grammys party in 1997 and eventually started a family together. Lily, ever the proud daughter, introduced the world to her dad's iconic role as Iago in Disney's 1992 animated film Aladdin. "My dad is a bird in Aladdin," she gleefully declared.
Gilbert’s children played a pivotal role in his life, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Beverly Hills Cop II star collaborated with TBS’ Tournament of Laughs, creating hilarious skits with the help of Lily and Max. Lily even taught her father the ins and outs of TikTok, bringing a new generation of comedy to the forefront.
"My daughter, she’s on TikTok. So, she got me on TikTok, I have no idea what it is," Gilbert joked. "I’m like talking to somebody’s grandmother about TikTok. And she’ll say, ‘I want you to do this little dance step,’ which, of course, I can never do. So, I was already making stuff with her, and [the video] was like the next step."
Gilbert’s Son Max: A Legacy in the Making
During an interview with Celebritybabies.com shortly after Max's birth, the Gottfrieds revealed the deep meaning behind their son’s name. "Max is named after Gilbert’s father Max and my grandmother Mildred," Dara explained. "Our son was also born on his grandfather Max’s birthday! His middle name is after my grandfather Aaron." This thoughtful naming decision highlights the importance of family and heritage in the Gottfried household.
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Max has also formed a special bond with the son of another beloved entertainer, Penn Jilette. In July 2019, Gilbert proudly shared a photo of Max hanging out with the magician’s son, Zolten, showcasing the friendships that continue to enrich his children's lives.
