Comedian and Actor Richard Lewis, Known for ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and ‘Robin Hood: Men in Tights,’ Dies at 76
The entertainment industry mourns the loss of Richard Lewis, the beloved comedian and actor who captured hearts with his roles on the hit HBO comedy “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and in the classic film “Robin Hood: Men in Tights.” Lewis passed away peacefully at the age of 76 at his home in Los Angeles on Tuesday night after suffering a heart attack. His publicist, Jeff Abraham, confirmed the news in a statement to ABC News.
Lewis, known for his dark and self-deprecating sense of humor, began his career in comedy clubs and quickly made a name for himself. Throughout the ’70s and ’80s, he became a regular on late-night talk shows like “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson,” showcasing his comedic talent to a wide audience. With his distinctive style and wit, Lewis carved a niche for himself in the industry.
One of Lewis’s most notable roles was on the ABC sitcom “Anything but Love,” where he starred alongside Jamie Lee Curtis for four seasons from 1989 to 1992. The show revolved around two co-workers at a magazine office in Chicago who struggled to navigate their romantic feelings while maintaining a professional relationship. Lewis’s comedic timing and chemistry with Curtis made the show a fan favorite.
In recent years, Lewis delighted audiences with his portrayal of a fictionalized version of himself on Larry David’s critically acclaimed series “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” The show, currently airing its 12th season, showcased Lewis’s comedic prowess and ability to bring laughter to millions of viewers.
Beyond television, Lewis made his mark on the big screen as well. He famously played Prince John in Mel Brooks’ comedy classic “Robin Hood: Men in Tights,” starring alongside Cary Elwes as the iconic character. Lewis’s performance added a touch of humor and charm to the film, earning him praise from both critics and fans alike.
Additionally, Lewis showcased his versatility as an actor in the Oscar-winning drama “Leaving Las Vegas,” where he starred alongside Nicolas Cage and Elisabeth Shue. His portrayal of a sympathetic character in the midst of a tumultuous story highlighted his ability to tackle more serious roles with depth and emotion.
In April 2023, Lewis announced his retirement from stand-up comedy after nearly 50 years in the industry. In a heartfelt video posted on X (formerly Twitter), he revealed that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease two years prior. Despite the challenges he faced, Lewis maintained a positive outlook on life. In an interview with Vanity Fair, he expressed gratitude for the incredible experiences he had throughout his career.
“I’ve had such an amazing life. I still do. I’m a lucky man,” Lewis shared with the magazine. “I got in touch with more gratitude and also acceptance.”
Lewis’s honesty extended beyond his performances. He openly discussed his mental health struggles and journey to recovery from alcohol and drug abuse. In his 2000 memoir, “The Other Great Depression,” and his 2015 book, “Reflections From Hell: Richard Lewis’ Guide on How Not to Live,” he shared his personal experiences, offering hope and inspiration to others facing similar challenges.
Larry David, Lewis’s co-star on “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” expressed his deep sorrow at the loss of his dear friend. “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,” David said 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.”
Richard Lewis leaves behind a legacy of laughter and a profound impact on the world of comedy. His unique style, genuine warmth, and ability to find humor in life’s darkest moments will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come. As the entertainment industry mourns the loss of a true comedic genius, fans will forever cherish the laughter he brought into their lives.