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George Carlin

Comedian George Carlin passed away on June 22 at the age of 71 due to heart failure. The legendary performer was admitted to Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica earlier in the day complaining of chest pains, but died later that evening. A stand-up comic and author, he was always open about his long struggle with drugs and alcohol and suffered a heart attack in the past. Late night host Jay Leno said, "If there was ever a comedian who was a voice of their generation it was George Carlin." And actor Ben Stiller echoed Jay, releasing a statement that George was "a hugely influential force in stand-up comedy. He was one of the greats and he will be missed."

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• Ben Stiller,
• comedian,
• George Carlin,
• Jay Leno,