Comedy genius Harold Ramis has died from complications of autoimmune inflammatory vasculitis. He was 69. Wife Erica Mann Ramis said he was surrounded by family and friends.
A writer, director and actor, Harold’s extensive resume included co-writing Animal House, co-writing/starring in Ghostbusters and directing Caddyshack. More recently, he directed episodes of The Office.
Before professionally pursing comedy, Harold worked at a psych ward. He joked in 2009 nothing in the entertainment industry shocked him after that experience.
“I was kind of adventurous but there’s nothing like being in a psych ward to expand your vision of the possibilities of human behavior… There was nothing I hadn’t seen and I saw some pretty unusual behavior on movie sets, but nothing could top what I already experienced.”
The Chicago Tribune noted Harold’s trademark style of “smart and gut-bustingly funny” comedy inspired many of today’s top talents.
Tributes to Harold are already pouring in…
The Second City executive producer Andrew Alexander said of the comedy troupe alumnus: “It is impossible to overstate the personal and professional influence that Harold Ramis has had on all of us at The Second City. He was a natural leader, a trusted friend and so generous with his own talent that he made everyone he ever worked with look like a genius. We are devastated to lose him so young but we were all enriched by the years we did get to partake of his particular brilliance.”
Harold Ramis was a brilliant, shining example for every comedy writer hoping to achieve excellence the field. He will be sorely missed.
— Seth MacFarlane (@SethMacFarlane) February 24, 2014
Was honored to have gotten to work with Harold Ramis, the Buddha of Comedy. Brilliant, humble, radiant. We've lost an icon. #GroundhogDay
— RainnWilson (@rainnwilson) February 24, 2014
No no not Harold Ramis. Worked for him years ago. He was the real deal. Growing up, his work changed my life. He will be missed.
— Jon Favreau (@Jon_Favreau) February 24, 2014
"I collect spores, molds, and fungus" – condolences to the family and friends of the great Harold Ramis
— Jimmy Kimmel (@jimmykimmel) February 24, 2014
If you're my age and got into comedy, Harold Ramis was one of the reasons. Life is fast and over too soon.
— Zach Braff (@zachbraff) February 24, 2014