Saturday Night Live legend Phil Hartman died tragically 20 years ago on May 28, 1998, after his third wife shot him and then killed herself.

We lost Phil Hartman 20 years ago today. When he was on SNL, he would greet the fans in the NBC lobby after a grueling 12-hour Friday rehearsal. We’d say "Do Sinatra, do Clinton." etc. You could see he was tired, but he always obliged. That’s how sweet he was. We miss you Phil! pic.twitter.com/p3w2tQr1Kc

— Candice Graham (@candygraham0813) May 28, 2018

Tragic death

At the time of his death, he was the fourth Saturday Night Live alumni to suffer a tragic death.

A) Today was the 20th anniversary of Phil Hartman’s untimely death. Phil played a critical role in my life and the lives of many other comics and actors and I want to tell you a quick story. pic.twitter.com/Ole3j9Nhcg

— Kathy Griffin (@kathygriffin) May 29, 2018

His wife, Brynn Hartman, was an actress and model. She was known to have a temper and reportedly killed the comedian, while they were in bed. Their bodies were found in the bedroom in their Los Angeles home.

Remarkable career

Thecomedian had a remarkable career in the brief time that he lived.

Two of the best. Love is a dream.
Both are missed.
Phil Hartman.
Jan Hooks. pic.twitter.com/FuTL79lkjO

— vudusister (@vudusister) May 28, 2018

He’d starred in hit series like The Simpsons where he played the character, Troy McClure. He also starred in NewsRadio.

Today marks 20 years since we lost the legendary Phil Hartman. Take a moment to think about your favourite Phil moment @TheSimpsons @thatbilloakley #loveforhartman pic.twitter.com/4IMSKdVPys

— The Simpsons Podcast (@fourfingerpod) May 28, 2018

20 years ago today since Phil Hartman was senselessly murdered.

The voice behind Lionel Hutz, Troy McClure, and the reason for the creation of Zapp Brannigan. Quite simply one of the funniest comedians to ever grace this earth. pic.twitter.com/Di5cCF6HiI

— Danny (@BrianKiddsMate) May 28, 2018

The legendary comedian worked closely with current Hollywood big names like Chris Rock, Woody Harrelson, and Adam Sandler.

Children and legacy

Hartman would have been 70 in September if he had not been murdered. He is survived by a son, 29-year-old Sean Edward Hartman, and daughter, 26-year-old Birgen Hartman.

In 2015, after years of keeping a low profile, Birgen attended the “SNL 40” anniversary where tribute was paid to her father for his contributions to comedy.