Comedian Richard Lewis, Star of ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm,’ Has Died at 76

Comedian Richard Lewis attends an NBA basketball game in Los Angeles on Dec. 25, 2012. Alex Gallardo/AP Photo

Richard Lewis, the renowned stand-up comedian who starred alongside Larry David in the hit television series “Curb Your Enthusiasm” for over 24 years, died on Tuesday at his home in Los Angeles, succumbing to a heart attack.

In April last year, the actor and comic disclosed his battle with Parkinson’s disease and declared his retirement from the world of stand-up comedy. Despite his health challenges, he made a notable appearance in Season 12 of “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” which is currently being broadcast on HBO.

In 2021, Mr. Lewis announced he would not be in Season 11 as he was recuperating from several surgeries. However, he surprised audiences by making a return to the set for a single episode.

“When I walked in and they applauded, I felt like a million bucks. Larry doesn’t like to hug, and he hugged me and told me how happy he was after we shot our scene,” Mr. Lewis told Variety at the time.

Beyond his acting prowess, Mr. Lewis was revered for his stand-up comedy, where he showcased his trademark blend of self-deprecating humor and incisive observations on life. His presence in “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” in which he played a semi-fictionalized version of himself, endeared him to audiences worldwide.

His first on-screen role was in the 1979 made-for-television film “Diary of a Young Comic.” He later released several comedy specials, including the 1985 Showtime special “I’m in Pain,” followed by the HBO specials “I’m Exhausted” (1988), “I’m Doomed” (1990), and “Richard Lewis: The Magical Misery Tour” (1997), according to Variety.

The comedian’s film credits include roles in the 1993 comedy “Robin Hood: Men in Tights,” the 1995 drama “Leaving Las Vegas,” and the 1995 film “Drunks” alongside Faye Dunaway, Parker Posey, and Dianne Wiest, portraying a character grappling with addiction and exploring the complexities of substance abuse.

Tributes From Friends and Colleagues

Throughout his career, Mr. Lewis remained open about his struggles with drug and alcohol addiction, incorporating his journey of recovery and battles with depression and anxiety into his comedic narrative. Formerly dealing with cocaine and crystal meth use, Mr. Lewis revealed that the untimely passing of John Candy in 1994 was part of his decision to pursue sobriety, Variety reported.

As the news of Mr. Lewis’ death broke, fellow comedians and members of the entertainment industry shared tributes to the star, highlighting his talent and impact on the world of comedy.

Larry David, Mr. Lewis’ longtime collaborator and friend, expressed his sorrow over the loss.

“Richard was a true comedic genius. His wit, charm, and unmatched comedic timing will be sorely missed. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” Mr. David wrote.

“Curb Your Enthusiasm” co-star Cheryl Hines posted a photo of the pair on X with the caption, “He would take time to tell the people he loved what they meant to him. In between takes on Curb, he would tell me how special I was to him and how much he loved me. To be loved by Richard Lewis. A true gift. I love you Richard. You will be missed”

HBO issued its own statement to Variety.

“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.”

Comedian and actor Albert Brooks also took to X, posting: “RIP Richard Lewis. A brilliantly funny man who will missed by all. The world needed him now more than ever.”

In addition to his contributions to the entertainment industry, Mr. Lewis was also known for his philanthropic endeavors and his advocacy for Parkinson’s disease research.