Fans across New Jersey and across the world are mourning the loss of legendary comedian George Carlin.

The comedian passed away Sunday from heart failure at the age of 71. Carlin had suffered heart problems in the past.

New Jersey's own Joe Piscopo says he idolized Carlin.

"I used to go around and imitate George Carlin," he says. "I could do the whole album when I was a kid."

Through the years, Carlin recorded two HBO specials in the Garden State, including 1988's classic "What Am I Doing in New Jersey." He was also the first ever host of NBC's Saturday Night Live.

Carlin, considered a hero of the counterculture to many, is perhaps most well known for his "The Seven Words You Can't Say on Television." The bit led to a Supreme Court decision on broadcasting offensive language.

Prior to his death, Carlin was scheduled for two standup appearances next month at Atlantic City's Borgata Casino.

For Joe Piscopo?s tribute to George Carlin, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.