Update!

Hugh Hefner's Brother Keith Dead at 87

Brothers were extremely close throughout the years

By Lily Harrison Apr 08, 2016 7:42 PMTags
Keith Hefner, Hugh HefnerGiulio Marcocchi/Getty Images

UPDATE: Hugh Hefner took to Twitter after the passing of his brother, Keith Hefner, writing, "This morning, my dear brother and best friend passed away. I love you, Keith. Rest in peace."

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It's a sad day for the Hefner family and Playboy.

E! News can confirm that Hugh's brother passed away this morning after a battle with cancer.

The longtime Playboy executive was not only a fixture at the Playboy Mansion, but he also had roles in several films like Star 80, Fever Pitch and Evil Town.

Keith also was a series regular on the E! hit show, The Girls Next Door, as well as the ‘60s series Get Smart.

TMZ reports that the 87-year-old died at his home in Beverly Hills and had a major role in Playboy bunny training and talent scouting.

In fact, Keith has been credited for coming up with the "Bunny Dip"—the signature move that bunnies used to serve drinks to guests during the Playboy Club days.

The tragic family news comes just one day shy of Hugh's 90th birthday.

Meanwhile, an insider tells E! News that the brothers "were extremely close."

Kendra Wilkinson-Baskett took to Twitter to share her shock over the passing, writing, "Just heard the news about Keith Hefner. He was such an awesome guy. I will miss him. #RIPKeith"

(Originally published Friday, April 8 at 12:42 p.m. PT)