Richard Lewis, a beloved stand-up comic and actor, known for his role in HBO's "Curb Your Enthusiasm," passed away at his Los Angeles home at the age of 76 after suffering a heart attack.
It was reported by Deadline that his publicist, Jeff Abraham, confirmed his death. Lewis had been living with Parkinson's disease, which he revealed in April 2023. Abraham conveyed gratitude from Lewis's wife, Joyce Lapinsky, for the outpouring of love and support and requested privacy during this time.
Lewis, whose comedy career spanned several decades, emerged as a prominent figure in the comedy scene during the 1970s alongside contemporaries like Andy Kaufman and Richard Belzer, as disclosed by Deadline. Known for his dark humor and candid portrayal of his struggles with addiction and neurosis, Lewis's stand-up performances were both self-deprecating and brutally honest. His stage persona was as dark as the all-black clothes he favored.
Deadline also noted that despite the challenges of his health and personal battles, Lewis found success on television, making appearances on popular late-night shows such as "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" and becoming a favorite guest of hosts like David Letterman, Jay Leno, and Howard Stern. He also starred in several TV comedy specials, including ones on HBO, where he showcased his edgy observations.
Lewis's acting career included roles in films such as "Robin Hood: Men in Tights" (1993) and "Leaving Las Vegas" (1995). He made his acting debut in the 1979 NBC special "Diary of a Young Comic" and went on to star in sitcoms like "Anything but Love" alongside Jamie Lee Curtis and "Hiller and Diller" with Kevin Nealon.
Throughout his career, Lewis remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, admired for his unique comedic style and his ability to blend humor with raw honesty. His passing marks the end of an era in comedy, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by fans and fellow comedians alike.
