Beloved comedian Richard Lewis, known for his roles in the hit show “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and his stand-up comedy, has sadly passed away at the age of 76. His long battle with Parkinson’s disease came to an end, leaving fans around the world grieving for their favorite funnyman. Fellow entertainer Bette Midler confirmed the news on social media, expressing her sorrow over the loss.
Lewis leaves behind a rich legacy of laughter and entertainment that spanned decades. As an actor, writer, and comedian, he captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Variety confirmed his passing, stating it was due to a heart attack. His wife Joyce Lapinsky, who survives him, expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from fans. She also requested privacy for the family during this difficult time.
A close friend of Lewis and the creator of “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” Larry David, paid tribute to him in a heartfelt statement. David reminisced about their lifelong bond, emphasizing Lewis’s unique blend of humor and kindness. Their connection was so strong that they were born just three days apart in the same hospital.
Lewis’s passing came shortly after an episode of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” featured him joking about his own mortality and will. It was clear that his health struggles had impacted his ability to attend the show’s season 10 premiere earlier in the year. Lewis expressed regret for not attending the event and thanked HBO and David for making his dreams come true.
In his final social media post, Lewis expressed his admiration for “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and mentioned his enjoyment of a recent episode. Born in Brooklyn, New York, just three days apart from Larry David in 1947, Lewis shared a special connection with his longtime collaborator.
Throughout his career, Lewis showcased his comedic talent in various roles, including his recurring portrayal of a fictionalized version of himself on “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” He also appeared in films such as “Robin Hood: Men in Tights” and TV shows like “Daddy Dearest” and “Anything But Love,” alongside Jamie Lee Curtis.
Starting his comedy career in the late 1970s in New York and Los Angeles, Lewis quickly became a favorite on late-night TV, with memorable appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.” His stand-up specials, including “I’m In Pain,” “I’m Exhausted,” and “Richard Lewis: The Magical Misery Tour,” solidified his reputation as a top comedian.
Lewis’s impact on the comedy world earned him recognition as one of Comedy Central’s top 50 stand-up comedians of all time and a place on GQ magazine’s list of 20th Century’s Most Influential Humorists. Described by the Los Angeles Times as a performer whose comedy felt like a “very funny and often dark therapy session,” Lewis’s humor resonated with audiences worldwide.
In addition to his comedic prowess, Lewis’s journey to sobriety in 1994 served as an inspiration to many. Celebrating nearly three decades of sobriety in August, he shared his milestone with pride, highlighting his resilience and determination.
As fans mourn the loss of this comedic icon, Richard Lewis’s legacy lives on through his timeless humor and unforgettable performances. He will always be remembered as “The Prince of Pain” in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
