Garry Shandling of ‘The Larry Sanders Show’ and more dead at 66

There’s some truly sad news to report today when it comes to acting icon Garry Shandling. The performer, per TMZ, died earlier today after suffering what is being called a “massive heart attack.” He was 66 years old.

Shandling is best known for two separate shows that really helped to shape much of comedy as we know it today: “It’s Garry Shandling’s Show” followed by “The Larry Sanders Show.” The latter featured such extraordinary talent as Bob Odenkirk, Jeffrey Tambor, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Jeremy Piven, Jon Stewart, Rip Torn, and many others. Several legendary comics stopped by for at least a one-time appearance, while a few others were a bit more regular in their visits. It was on in the same sort of era as “Seinfeld,” but we’re willing to wager that it was still under-appreciated while it was on the air, let alone now.

Since his major contributions to television Shandling has made some appearances here and there, but has for the most part been under-the-radar. His last major TV credit was all the way back on “The X-Files” in 2000, though he has since done a few movies and done a handful of voice-over work. He seemed to enjoy his time out of the spotlight just as much as he enjoyed working within it.

We know that there is a long weekend coming up, and for many of you out there this is going to be an opportunity to catch up on some old TV programming. We suggest that if you have a moment somewhere in there to take a look at some old episodes of “The Larry Sanders Show.” They are very funny in a way that few other shows on TV are, and we have a feeling that you will very much enjoy them immensely.

Our thoughts are out to Shandling’s family at this time.