Steve Martin ‘Sad’ Over Garry Shandling’s Death: He Was So ‘Genuine’

The world lost a comedic genius with the passing of Garry Shandling on March 24. And while many fans and fellow comedians have mourned the legend’s sudden death via social media, HollywoodLife.com spoke directly to Steve Martin about the tragedy.

Garry Shandling, who was 66 years old when he died of a massive heart attack on March 24, was without a doubt a legend. The funnyman appeared to do it all from standup, to hosting, to even creating his own show. In the wake of his sudden death, comedians everywhere have disclosed their fondest memories of Garry — including Steve Martin, 70, a legend himself. And the things Steve had to say about his late friend are BEYOND touching!

“I knew him a little bit personally. I had dinner with him a couple of times. He was so genuine, so funny, so different from everybody else that it’s a really sad event,” Steve revealed to HollywoodLife.com at the opening of his new Broadway play, “Bright Star.” Wow, how beautiful! It sounds like the entertainment industry truly lost an amazing human being. And sad is definitely an understatement!

Garry’s death completely came out of nowhere, stunning the world. It was later revealed that he died of a “massive heart attack, with no prior warning whatsoever,” falling unconscious after making the 911 call, according to TMZ. Even more shocking, he was reportedly alive and well just hours earlier — with no signs of health trouble whatsoever. 

On top of that, just days before, the Larry Sanders Show star was hanging out with fellow comedians Kathy Griffin, 55, and Bob Odenkirk, 53. SO sad! Upon hearing the devastating news, comedians everywhere took to social media to remember the icon. “Goodbye Gary Shandling thank you for your kindness and your generosity and for making me laugh so damn much,” Amy Schumer, 34, tweeted.

Steve also posted a message about Garry, remembering, “Garry Shandling was a very special comedian with a beautifully unpredictable mind. He even voluntarily offered jokes and ideas for Oscars.” What a guy, right?

Garry leaves behind quite a legacy as his HBO series The Larry Sanders Show, which had 89 episodes, earned him 56 Emmy nominations and three Emmy wins.