Macdonald, a longtime stand-up comedian and actor, appeared in films such as Billy Madison, Doctor Dolittle, and Funny People.
He created and starred in The Norm Show, which aired on ABC from 1999 to 2001. Other television credits include NewsRadio, The Drew Carey Show, and The Orville.
Macdonald was a regular on the late night talk show circuit and he was one of the first mainstream comedians to launch a video podcast.
Celebrities and comedians reacted to news of his death:
My dear friend Norm MacDonald passed after a brave 10 year battle. He was one of our most precious gems. An honest and courageous comedy genius. I love him.
— Jim Carrey (@JimCarrey) September 14, 2021
This photo was taken after I was a guest on Norm's show. At dinner the laughs just continued nonstop. He will be missed. RIP Norm Macdonald pic.twitter.com/DToJCUBdU2
— Gilbert Gottfried (@RealGilbert) September 14, 2021
Norm was in a comedy genre of his own. No one like him on this planet. Please do yourself a favor and watch his stuff. He was one of a kind of all time
— Sarah Silverman (@SarahKSilverman) September 14, 2021
NOOOOO GODDAMIT. Oh my God what is even happening.
Good bye, Norm. You were never not 100% hilarious. https://t.co/loW3QsEjgW
— Patton Oswalt (@pattonoswalt) September 14, 2021
A week after his defeat in the 1996 presidential election, Bob Dole meets the man who portrayed him on Saturday Night Live, Norm MacDonald pic.twitter.com/CGF5rG3W5Q
— Steve Kornacki (@SteveKornacki) September 14, 2021
Rest In Peace, Norm Macdonald
Comedy will never be the same without you
— NOTSportsCenter (@NOTSportsCenter) September 14, 2021
This absolutely sucks, but rest in peace to comedy legend, Norm MacDonald! A true comedian's comedian. 🕊️🕊️ pic.twitter.com/9RgVQaDn0G
— BROTHER (@BrotherHQ) September 14, 2021