Iconic stand-up comedian Richard Lewis, known for his iconic performances and portrayal of a fictionalized version of himself on HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm, passed away Tuesday night at his Los Angeles residence after experiencing a heart attack. He was 76 years old.
The sad news was confirmed by his publicist, Jeff Abraham. Lewis had been battling Parkinson’s disease, a condition he publicly disclosed in April 2023.
In a statement, Abraham conveyed the gratitude of Lewis’s wife, Joyce Lapinsky, for the outpouring of love and support and requested privacy during this difficult time.
Born Richard Philip Lewis on June 29, 1947, in Brooklyn and raised in Englewood, NJ, Lewis emerged as a comedic force during the vibrant comedy scenes of New York and Los Angeles in the 1970s. He quickly established himself as a favorite on late-night shows like The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.
Lewis’s stand-up routines were characterized by their dark humor and candid exploration of personal struggles, earning him acclaim and comparisons to literary giant Franz Kafka by none other than Mel Brooks.
His career transcended stand-up, with notable roles in TV shows like Anything but Love and Hiller and Diller, as well as memorable film appearances in Robin Hood: Men in Tights and Drunks.
However, it was his portrayal of a heightened version of himself on Curb Your Enthusiasm that solidified his status as a comedic legend. Co-created by his childhood friend Larry David, the show provided a platform for Lewis’s unmatched wit and talent, endearing him to audiences worldwide.
HBO, in a statement mourning his loss, described Lewis as a cherished member of the “Curb Your Enthusiasm” family, highlighting his comedic brilliance and unmatched talent.
Despite his retirement from regular performances following his Parkinson’s diagnosis, Lewis made periodic returns to Curb Your Enthusiasm, reaffirming his enduring legacy in the world of comedy.
Throughout his life, Lewis remained candid about his struggles with addiction and anxiety, earning him the moniker “The Prince of Pain.” He authored two memoirs and released DVD collections chronicling his illustrious career spanning four decades.
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Larry David and Curb Your Enthusiasm Cast Pay Tribute
Lewis was fondly remembered by his close friend and the show’s creator, Larry David, along with other colleagues and stars.
David, reflecting on their lifelong friendship, expressed deep sorrow over Lewis’s passing, describing him as both incredibly funny and genuinely sweet. The two had been friends since childhood, meeting at the age of 12 at summer camp. Their on-screen chemistry and camaraderie on Curb Your Enthusiasm endeared them to audiences worldwide.
Cheryl Hines, who co-starred as David’s ex-wife on the show, fondly recalled Lewis’s warmth and affection, emphasizing his ability to express love and appreciation for those close to him. “Through the years I learned who Richard really was and the gifts he gave. Yes, he was the comedian I fell in love with, but he was also one of the most loving people I know.”
Susie Essman, who portrayed Susie Green on the series, hailed Lewis as an irreplaceable comedic talent and a supportive friend.
Jamie Lee Curtis, Lewis’s co-star on the sitcom Anything But Love, reminisced about his remarkable acting skills and endearing personality. She marveled at his ability to infuse depth and humor into his performances, noting his unique approach to memorizing lines.
Ben Stiller and director Paul Feig paid tribute to Lewis’s comedic prowess and generosity, highlighting his influence as a stand-up comedian and his impact on the comedy community.
Cary Elwes, who starred alongside Lewis in Robin Hood: Men in Tights, expressed his grief over the loss of a dear friend and esteemed colleague.
Richard Lewis leaves behind a profound legacy, remembered not only for his comedic genius but also for his candor, vulnerability, and unwavering commitment to his craft.
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