Carol Burnett Honors Steve Lawrence, Who Appeared on Her Variety Show 39 Times and She Considered ‘Family’

Lawrence died Thursday at age 88 from complications due to Alzheimer's

Carol Burnett is mourning the loss of her friend and collaborator Steve Lawrence.

“Steve was one of my favorite guests on my variety show, appearing 39 times. He was also my very close friend … so close that I considered him ‘family.’ He will always be in my heart,” the comedian and former variety show host, 90, captioned a black-and-white photograph of them performing together in their younger years.

Burnett shared the tribute on her Instagram account on Thursday after news broke of Lawrence's death. He was 88.

“What a talent. Rest now, Steve,” Jane Lynch wrote in the comment section.

Fans also showed their support, with one writing, “Whenever I think of Steve Lawrence I immediately think of your show. He was always a favorite guest. Wonderful singer and great in the sketches too. He and [Eydie] were wonderful!! R.I.P.”

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According to a press release, Lawrence’s death was caused by "complications due to Alzheimer's disease.” He was diagnosed in 2019.

At the time, in a letter obtained by PEOPLE, the Emmy and Grammy winner revealed his condition in an effort to put a rest to “a number of rumors and some press reaching out” to him.

“I have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and it’s in the early stages. I am being treated with medications under the supervision of some of the finest doctors in the field,” Lawrence wrote. “Fortunately, they have managed to slow down this horrific process. I’m living my life, going out in public and trying to spend as much time as possible with my family and friends while I am still able to engage and enjoy.”

The New York native rose to fame as one half of the music duo Steve and Eydie with his late wife Eydie Gormé.

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Burnett, Lynch, 63, and fans weren’t the only ones to reflect on his legacy via social media on Thursday.

Family Guy creator and star Seth MacFarlane also shared a tribute online.

“RIP Steve Lawrence— This guy has been a musical hero of mine for years. His effortless baritone and superb phrasing made the most difficult songs sound easy,” the animator, 50, tweeted on X (formerly known as Twitter).

In his post was archival footage of the late entertainer performing “On A Clear Day You Can See Forever."

Throughout Lawrence’s career, he also earned a No. 1 on Billboard's Hot 100 singles chart in 1963 before doing the same in 1971.

He is survived by his son David, daughter-in-law Faye, granddaughter Mabel, brother Bernie and extended family members.

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