Comedian Jeni Dies On Self-Inflicted Gunshot

files/pictures/picture-35.jpgComedian Richard Jeni, who made more appearances on THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO than any other comic, died of an apparently self-inflicted gunshot wound to the face, reports various news outlet. He was taken to the hospital in Los Angeles after a 911 call where he died of his injuries. He was 45.

In animation, Jeni guest starred as himself in the 1994 THE ADVENTURES OF BATMAN AND ROBIN episode "Make 'Em Laugh," where famous comedians are brainwashed by the Joker. Additionally, he voiced animated versions of himself of three episodes of Comedy Central's SHORTIES WATCHING SHORTIES, as well as a 1996 episode of DR. KATZ, PROFESSIONAL THERAPIST.

He was born in Brooklyn and earned an honors B.A. in political science from New York City's Hunter College. His film appearances include 1994's THE MASK. In 1992, he won the American Comedy Award for funniest male stand-up comic.