• Actor and comedian Richard Lewis passed away at the age of 76 after suffering a heart attack
• Lewis was known for his neurotic, self-deprecating style of comedy and appeared in various TV shows and movies
• He was open about his struggles with substance abuse and living with Parkinson’s disease, but also reflected on his journey to success in the entertainment industry.
Here is what happened:
Hollywood recently bid farewell to the legendary comedian Richard Lewis, who passed away at the age of 76 in his Los Angeles home after suffering a heart attack. Known for his neurotic and self-deprecating style of comedy, Lewis made his mark in the entertainment industry with memorable appearances on shows like “The Tonight Show” and “The Late Show With David Letterman” in the ’80s and ’90s. His iconic role as a fictionalized version of himself on HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm” solidified his status as a comedic icon.
Throughout his career, Lewis showcased his talent not only in comedy but also in acting, with notable roles in films like “Robin Hood: Men in Tights” and television series like “7th Heaven,” where he guest-starred as a rabbi for two seasons. Despite his success, Lewis was open about his struggles, including his battle with substance abuse and his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease in 2023. In his autobiography titled “The Other Great Depression,” he candidly shared his journey to sobriety after a harrowing experience in 1991 that led him to seek help and make significant lifestyle changes.
In a poignant statement following his passing, Lewis’s wife Joyce Lapinsky expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from fans and the industry. In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Lewis reflected on his career and the challenges he faced as a comedian trying to make his mark in a competitive industry. Despite the hurdles, he remained resilient and grateful for the opportunities that allowed him to leave a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment.
