UPDATE 3/25/16 3:58 PM: Garry Shandling reportedly passed away due to a sudden heart attack, according to a report from E! News. Shandling had "no history" of heart problems and was "considered healthy," doctors say. An autopsy will not be performed.
UPDATE 3/24/2016 8:47 PM Actor Jeffrey Tambor, who worked with Shandling on The Larry Sanders Show, has issued the following statement on Garry Shandling's passing:
"I am so sad. Garry was my dear friend and was and always will be my teacher. Garry redesigned the wheel of comedy and he was the kindest and funniest of geniuses. I will miss him so much."
See original story below.
Beloved comedian Garry Shandling has passed away at the age of 66, the Associated Pressconfirms. Shandling, most known for his widely praised work on HBO's The Larry Sanders Show and its Showtime predecessor It's Garry Shandling's Show, reportedly died at a hospital in Los Angeles on Thursday. Shandling is not believed to have been suffering from an undisclosed illness, according to TMZ's sources.
The Larry Sanders Show, considered by many as hugely influential on Larry David's Curb Your Enthusiasm, pushed the limits of traditional television with its slightly meta take on the late-night talk show format. Shandling, as Sanders, was joined by Jeffrey Tambor and Rip Torn for six seasons of the Emmy-winning series.
Just last week, Shandling reunited with Larry Sanders Show co-star Bob Odenkirk alongside fellow comedian Kathy Griffin:
As news of Shandling's passing broke, comedians took to social media to express their gratitude for his impact on the art of comedy and to thank him for his many contributions:
At time of publication, Shandling's family had not released an official statement. LAPD officials, speaking withBuzzFeed, confirmed that Shandling suffered a "medical emergency," though no additional information was made available.
Rest in power, Garry.
