The world of comedy mourns the loss of Richard Lewis, beloved actor, and comedian renowned for his role in HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Lewis, who passed away at the age of 76, had a profound impact on his colleagues and fans alike, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and warmth.
Larry David, Lewis’s longtime friend, and co-star on “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” paid a heartfelt tribute to the late comedian, expressing his deep sorrow at the loss of a dear friend. Reflecting on their close bond, David described Lewis as not only the funniest person he knew but also one of the sweetest. “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,” said David in a statement. “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.”
Jaimie Lee Curtis, who worked with Lewis on the ’80s sitcom “Anything But Love,” also shared her grief on social media, reminiscing about the laughter and support he brought into her life. Curtis credited Lewis with helping her through difficult times, including her journey to sobriety, and expressed her gratitude for his kindness and friendship. “He made me laugh, which is the one thing that a strong, capable woman can’t really do for herself,” Curtis wrote on Instagram. “He got the part when I snort laughed when he mispronounced the word Bundt cake… He also is the reason I am sober. He helped me. I am forever grateful for him for that act of grace alone… I’m weeping as I write this.”
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HBO, the network behind “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” expressed their profound sadness at Lewis’s passing, praising his comedic brilliance and unmatched talent. “We are heartbroken to learn that Richard Lewis has passed away,” HBO said in a statement. “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.”
In a statement issued by his publicist, it was revealed that Lewis passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles after suffering a heart attack. His wife, Joyce Lapinsky, expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from fans, requesting privacy during this difficult time. “Richard Lewis passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles last night after suffering a heart attack,” Lewis’s publicist Jeff Abraham said. “His wife, Joyce Lapinsky, thanks everyone for all the love, friendship, and support and asks for privacy at this time.”
As the comedy world comes to terms with the loss of one of its brightest stars, tributes continue to pour in from all corners of the entertainment industry. Richard Lewis may have left this world, but his legacy of laughter and love will endure for generations to come.