Garry Shandling Dead at 66

Garry Shandling writer, actor, and producer most notably known for "It's Garry Shandling Show" and "The Larry Sanders Show" has passed at age 66, TMZ has reported this afternoon.

Frazer Harrison

It has been reported that he died suddenly in an L.A. hospital and the cause of death is not yet known.

Garry wrote for television early in his career on such shows as "Sanford and Son" and "Welcome Back, Kotter." An automobile accident left him in critical condition. It was during recovery that he decided to get into stand-up comedy. He guest-hosted "The Tonight Show" and was in considered for Johnny Carson's replacement.

“The Larry Sanders Show” was said to have a lasting impact on comedy at HBO, influencing such series as “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”