Insult-Slinging Funnyman Don Rickles Dead At 90

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Don Rickles, the legendary comedian known for insults and caustic wit, died Thursday at the age of 90.

Rickles died at his Los Angeles home as a result of kidney failure, according to spokesman Paul Shefrin. He would have turned 91 in May.

Regarded among the world's top entertainers, Rickles earned the nicknames "The Merchant of Venom" and "Mr. Warmth" from Johnny Carson for his style of humor which often targeted people of all ethnicities and walks of life.

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Despite his comedy pedigree, Rickles made a series of film and TV appearances in dramatic roles, beginning with "Run Silent, Run
Deep" in 1958 and "The Rat Race." He also had a prominent role in Clint Eastwood's war-time heist film "Kelly's Heroes" and appeared with Annette Funicello in several of her "Beach" movies, including "Beach Blanket Bingo."

More recently, he also played a tough guy role in director Martin Scorsese's "Casino," and lent his voice to Mr. Potato Head in the "Toy Story" film series.

He made guest appearances on dozens of classic V shows, including "The Beverly Hillbillies," "I Dream of Jeannie," "Get Smart," and "Sanford and Son".

Rickles had tweeted last Mother's Day - just before he turned 90 - that he had plans to "go for 100".

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Barbara, as well as their daughter Mindy Mann and her husband Ed, and Rickles' two grandchildren, Ethan and Harrison Mann.

Comedians and other celebrities paid tribute to Rickles on social media.

This is a breaking news report. More information will be provided as it becomes available.