KTNV ABC,Channel 13,Las Vegas,Nevada,News,Weather,Sports,Entertainment,KTNV.com,Action News .:. Friends issue statements on Danny Gans' death

Friends issue statements on Danny Gans' death

Las Vegas entertainer Danny Gans died Friday at his Las Vegas home at the age of 52. His friends from around the strip are reacting to his death. Here are some of their responses:

"I was shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of such a unique and gifted talent."
- Cher

The unexpected passing of Danny Gans is such a shock to everyone here at the Donny & Marie show. He was not only our producer but also a good friend; we would routinely call him for advice and direction regarding our production. We've lost an amazing entertainer. His friendship, charisma and talent will be greatly missed. Our prayers go out to his wife, Julie and their 3 children, and our heartfelt condolences to our dear friend and partner, Danny's longtime manager Chip Lightman.

God bless you, Danny Gans.
- Donny & Marie

"I'm very, very sad, and completely shocked to hear the news about Danny.   Rene and I have loved him very much since the first time we saw him and met him at the Rio in 1997.   Not only was he the best in his field, but he was such a kind and loving person.   About a month before my last show at Caesars, Danny and his wife Julie, and their daughters came to see us.  We talked and laughed for over an hour.  I can't believe he's not with us anymore, and our heart goes out to his family.  I wish them God's strength."
- Celine Dion

"The entire Harrah's Entertainment family is deeply saddened by the loss of Danny Gans. He was not only an incredibly talented performer, but was also a devoted family man and an important contributor to our community. We are proud that he entertained thousands of guests at our Rio property over many years. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, children, friends and fans. Danny will never be forgotten."
- Gary Loveman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Harrah's Entertainment

"We are devastated at the tragic loss of the great entertainer and Las Vegas icon, Danny Gans.  Having performed on the same property with Danny for many years, we were blessed to be touched by his generous spirit, kind heart and insurmountable talent.  Our hearts go out to his family as we join the entertainment community in mourning the loss of our friend.   The Las Vegas Strip is better for having had Danny Gans light shine so brightly, and it will be forever impacted by his loss."
- Siegfried & Roy

"The news of Danny Gans' passing is unbelievably shocking. Las Vegas has lost one of its best ambassadors. He was quite simply one of the greatest entertainers ever to step foot onto the stage. In my 27 years in Las Vegas, I have never seen anyone better. I first worked with Danny over 20 years ago in Palm Springs. President Gerald Ford was in the audience during the benefit at the Bob Hope Theater. As recently as last year I performed with Danny at a benefit show at the Mirage. He was a dear friend and I am profoundly sad today. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Julie, his children Amy, Andrew, Emily and his longtime friend and manager Chip Lightman."
- Lance Burton

"My Family is devastated by the shocking news of Danny Gans' passing.  He was an inspiration to so many and without his influence my family wouldn't have the life we have.  After years of struggling to find my career path I saw Mr. Gans' at the Mirage in August 2000 and it changed my life in an instant.  I suddenly knew I wanted to be like Danny Gans; an inspiring, funny, musical variety impressionist, and full blown Entertainer.  He was the closest I ever got to seeing the likes of Sammy Davis Jr. perform - Danny was that good!  He was the epitome of what could be accomplished in a career with his perfect stage act for all performers in the Impressionist and Entertainer Industry.  Imagine it - virtually no name value and he becomes a household name with a stage act in Vegas.  Only in America, only in Vegas, only Danny Gans!  You will be missed, the true American Idol, the Incomparable Danny Gans. "
- Jason Hewlett Entertainment

"Danny Gans was a talented entertainer and a valuable member of our community whose contributions to help those in need will be greatly missed.  Darlene and I will keep his family in our thoughts and prayers as they mourn such a sudden loss."
- Senator John Ensign

"Danny Gans will not only be remembered as a Las Vegas entertainer, but as a man who loved his family, loved God and loved the city of Las Vegas. Danny has been my partner and dear friend for over 18 years. I will truly miss him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife of 28 years, Julie, and his three children, Amy, Andrew and Emily. "
-Chip Lightman, Danny Gans' Manager

"Danny Gans brought joy to the lives of the millions of Nevadans and tourists who came to Las Vegas to see his show.  He was a talented performer who used his celebrity to give back to our community and those in need.  Las Vegas is a better place because of Danny Gans.  He will truly be missed."
- Senator Harry Reid

"Elaine and I and all of us in the Company are devastated at the loss of our brilliant, talented and loving friend.  One of the most unique human beings and entertainers in the world has been taken from us in an unexpected moment.  A profoundly tragic event that leaves us all sad and speechless.  The loss of Danny to his wife Julie, his children Amy, Andrew & Emily is at this moment impossible to comprehend.  We will all try to go on with our lives without our dear friend.  At this moment it seems almost impossible."
- Steve Wynn