The comedian and actor – who was best known as his alter ego Larry Sanders – has tragically passed away at the age of just 66 from a heart attack, TMZ reports.
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USA actor Garry Shandling who influenced a generation of comedians with his Emmy-winning TV series It’s Garry Shandling’s Show has died, aged 66.
Shandling, who began his showbiz career as a writer for TV sitcoms such as “Welcome Back, Kotter” and “Sanford and Son”, was transported from his Los Angeles home to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead, police and coroner’s officials said.
Conan O’Brien ditched his usual monologue to pay a moving tribute to “masterful” comic Garry Shandling who died on Thursday (March 24).
“The Larry Sanders Show” followed fictional talk show host Larry Sanders and his hectic life behind the scenes; the supporting cast included Janeane Garofalo, Bob Odenkirk and Jeremy Piven.
“The Larry Sanders Show” was a groundbreaking show that helped spawn other edgy comedy series like “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and “30 Rock”. “I just want to say a few things about him”. Late-night hosts Conan O’Brien and Seth Meyers found out about his death mere hours before they filmed their shows in front of live studio audiences, and both paid tribute.
Meanwhile, fans and loved ones are still reeling from Shandling’s death.
So instead of spending the week with his family, the late night host spent his vacation with Shandling, recovering from this painful experience.
Paramedics allegedly had to break down the comedy genius’ door to reach him. “We will miss him terribly”.
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Many famous comedians shared their feelings on the loss of Shandling on social media. He was not suffering from any illnesses, making his death sudden and unexpected. “We’re watching the sun go down, and I turned to Garry and said, ‘This is the most romantic moment of my life, and it’s with you.’ He was an incredibly generous person”.
