Richard Lewis, iconic comedian, passes away at 76
Legendary Comedian Richard Lewis Dies at 76
Renowned stand-up comedian Richard Lewis, famous for his work on the hit HBO show “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” has passed away at the age of 76 after suffering a heart attack.
Variety magazine confirmed Lewis’ death, following a heartfelt post by superstar actress Bette Midler, who wrote, “On a sad note, the great Richard Lewis has died.”
Richard Lewis, the stand-up comedian who also starred alongside Larry David in “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” has died. He was 76.
Lewis announced last April he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and was retiring from stand-up comedy. https://t.co/1xbj0xVNRM pic.twitter.com/NmraFADzDr
— Variety (@Variety) February 28, 2024
Shortly after the news broke, People magazine shared a statement from Lewis’ representative, Jeff Abraham, confirming that the comedian/actor passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles after suffering a heart attack.
“His wife, Joyce Lapinsky, thanks everyone for all the love, friendship, and support and asks for privacy at this time,” the statement added.
HBO also expressed their grief, stating, “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,” the statement continued.
Last April, Lewis announced his retirement from stand-up comedy and revealed his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease.
“For the last three-and-a-half years, I’ve had sort of a rocky time,” Lewis shared in a video he posted on social media at the time.
The beloved comedian explained how he had been walking stiffly and shuffling his feet for the past two years, leading to his diagnosis. However, he reassured fans that he was under a doctor’s care and on the right medication.
Lewis emphasized his focus on writing and acting, expressing his love for his wife, his little puppy dog, and his fans. He concluded the video by thanking everyone for their support and blessing them.
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Richard Lewis rose to fame in the 1980s as a stand-up comedian, known for his dark and self-deprecating humor. He gained recognition for his role alongside Jamie Lee Curtis in the sitcom “Anything but Love” and his appearance in the comedy film “Robin Hood: Men in Tights.” On ”Curb Your Enthusiasm,” Lewis portrayed a fictionalized version of himself.
Lewis is survived by his wife Joyce, whom he married in 2005. The comedian did not have any children.
Amanda Harding contributed to this piece.
How did Richard Lewis’s diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease impact his career and legacy
Read. “Richard was a comedic genius who brought joy and laughter to millions of people around the world. He will be greatly missed.”
Lewis, born Richard Philip Lewis on June 29, 1947, in Brooklyn, New York, rose to prominence in the comedy scene in the 1970s and 1980s. With his neurotic and self-deprecating style, he became known as the “Prince of Pain” in his stand-up acts, which often focused on his own struggles and anxieties.
In addition to his successful stand-up career, Lewis also found success in television and film. He made numerous appearances on talk shows and late-night programs, showcasing his quick wit and sharp comedic timing. One of his most notable roles was playing a fictionalized version of himself on the critically acclaimed HBO series ”Curb Your Enthusiasm,” created by Larry David.
Lewis’ talent and contribution to the world of comedy were recognized with several awards and accolades throughout his career. He received a Primetime Emmy nomination in 1992 for his comedy special “I’m Exhausted.” He was also honored with the American Comedy Awards’ Stand-Up Comic of the Year in 1998.
In April 2023, Lewis made the heartbreaking announcement that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and can lead to various symptoms such as tremors and stiffness. Due to his health condition, Lewis announced his retirement from stand-up comedy, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and wit.
As news of Lewis’ passing spread, tributes and condolences poured in from fans and fellow entertainers. Bette Midler, who co-starred with Lewis in the film “For the Boys,” expressed her sorrow on Twitter, stating, “Richard Lewis was a brilliant comedian and a dear friend. I’m grateful to have worked with him and shared so many laughs. My heart goes out to his loved ones. Rest in peace, Richard.”
The comedy world has lost a true legend with the passing of Richard Lewis. His unique comedic style and ability to find humor in the darkest of situations made him an enduring figure in the industry. His memory will live on through his countless comedic performances and the laughter he brought to the world.
Richard Lewis will always be remembered as a comedic genius who made us laugh, even when life seemed overwhelming. He leaves behind a remarkable body of work that will continue to entertain audiences for years to come. May he rest in peace.
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