The comedy world is in mourning as Richard Lewis has died. Known for his standup and for starring in HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm, Lewis leaves behind a lasting legacy. The comedian passed away at age 76.
According to Deadline, Lewis had a heart attack while home. He also battled the effects of Parkinson’s disease, something doctors diagnosed him with last April. Lewis’s publicist Jeff Abraham confirmed the comedian’s passing.
“His wife, Joyce Lapinsky, thanks everyone for all the love, friendship and support and asks for privacy at this time,” Abraham said.
Lewis was born and raised in the New York/New Jersey area. He later attended Ohio State University, but his passion for comedy brought him back to New York and took him to Los Angeles. Lewis shot to stardom thanks to appearances on the late-night talk show circuit.
Lewis quickly created a signature style focusing on comedy that was biting as it was raw. They say no one is a worse critic than their own selves, and Lewis focused his comedy on picking apart his own psyche. He focused on his own shortcomings as well as his struggles with addiction.
In 1979, Lewis turned his attention to acting, starring in the 1979 NBC special Diary of a Young Comic. He followed that up with other specials in 1985, 1988, 1990 and 1997. While his comedy may have been gritty, Lewis also had his lighter fair as well. He appeared in the 1990s TV show Anything but Love alongside Jamie Lee Curtis. He also appeared in the 1993 film Robin Hood: Men in Tights. That film was known for being a colorful camp take on the classic tale.
Richard Lewis Remembered by Peers
However, in recent years, Lewis’ biggest role was appearing on Curb Your Enthusiasm. He starred as a fictionalized version of himself and also best friend to the main character Larry David. In real life, the two had been friends since children.
In a statement, HBO said, “We are heartbroken to learn that Richard Lewis has passed away. His comedic brilliance, wit and talent were unmatched. Richard will always be a cherished member of the HBO and Curb Your Enthusiasm families, our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and all the fans who could count on Richard to brighten their days with laughter.”
“R.I.P. to a true original @TheRichardLewis,” comedian Bill Burr said on X/Twitter. “An absolutely fearless comedian who did and said what he wanted.”
“Richard Lewis was an amazing man. What a life,” Rex Chapman said. “We became friendly thru Twitter after I had been a fan my whole life. He would send friendly little messages from time to time over the past few years while he battled health issues. What a guy. Rest in peace, Richard.”