Legendary Comedian, 'Curb' Actor Richard Lewis Dead at 76
Comedian and actor Richard Lewis died at the age of 76. Lewis' publicist, Jeff Abraham, confirmed the "Curb Your Enthusiasm" regular's death on Wednesday. Lewis' cause of death was cited as a heart attack, peacefully passing away at his home in Los Angeles Tuesday night, Abraham noted.
"His wife, Joyce Lapinsky, thanks everyone for all the love, friendship and support and asks for privacy at this time," Abraham relayed.
Lewis' death was a tremendous loss for audiences who enjoyed the comic's signature dry wit and self-deprecating approach at the core of his career, spanning five decades. Richard Lewis splashed on the big screen with movies like "Anything But Love" and "Robin Hood: Men in Tights."
LAS VEGAS - JULY 27: Comedian/actor Richard Lewis hosts the Video Software Dealers Association's award show at the organization's annual home video convention at the Bellagio July 27, 2005 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Last year, Lewis announced a battle with Parkinson's disease.
Lewis left his mark across memorable late-night show appearances in the 70s; namely appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1974. Modern TV audiences grew to love Lewis' acerbic self in "Curb," acting as a complementary piece to Larry David's foolery, which often meant matching the nuttiness of LD.
LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 15: Actor Richard Lewis arrives at HBO's "Curb your Enthusiasm" Season 7 on September 15, 2009 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Valerie Macon/Getty Images)
David released a statement on Lewis' death on Wednesday afternoon.
"Richard and I were born three days apart in the same hospital and for most of my life he’s been like a brother to me. He had that rare combination of being the funniest person and also the sweetest. But today he made me sob and for that I’ll never forgive him."
HBO also relayed a statement on the beloved comic's passing. "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 read.
Rest in Peace to a legend.
(What's your favorite Richard Lewis role? Share your best suggestions: alejandro.avila@outkick.com)
HOLLYWOOD - SEPTEMBER 15: Richard Lewis and Larry David arrive at the Paramount Theater on the Paramount Studios lot on September 15, 2009 in Hollywood, California. HBO's Premiere Of "Curb Your Enthusiasm" - Red Carpet (Photo by FilmMagic Inc/FilmMagic)
HOLLYWOOD, CA - APRIL 06: Comedian Richard Lewis attends the premiere of "Sandy Wexler" at ArcLight Cinemas Cinerama Dome on April 6, 2017 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic)
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