Writer & Comedian Garry Shandling Dies at 66

Writer, actor, and comedian Garry Shandling died today at 66 in a Los Angeles hospital, according to TMZ.

The cause of death has not been disclosed, though sources tell the publication that "Shandling died from a massive heart attack, with no prior warning whatsoever."

Shandling is best known for THE LARRY SANDERS SHOW on HBO, which ran from 1992-1998, as well as the sitcom IT'S GARRY SHANDLING'S SHOW, which aired on Showtime beginning in 1986. He caught his big break in 1981 on THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JOHNNY CARSON after taking on the stand-up circuit. He would go on to guest co-host a number of times.

Throughout the years, the iconic comedian has also appeared in the films TOWN & COUNTRY, ZOOLANDER, OVER THE HEDGE, IRON MAN 2, and most recently, CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLIDER.

Not content to solely appear in front of the camera, Shandling penned many episodes of both of his shows throughout their time on the air, as well as the film WHAT PLANET ARE YOU FROM? and the short picture THE BRAIN STORM.

Fellow comedian Jim Carrey just released a statement on Shandling, saying, "When you get the light in a comedy club you know your time is up. Life doesn't always give you a signal. Garry Shandling performed at the highest level on and offstage. He was an excellent man and he was more than ready for the Big Show. Bravo Garry! Yours was a life well lived."

Photo Credit: Jim Smeal / BEImages

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