Following the death of Richard Lewis at the age of 76 on February 27, Sunday's episode of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” paid tribute to the late comedian.
Lewis was a longtime friend of series creator-star Larry David, 76, and frequently appeared on the show during its 12 seasons, playing a fictionalized version of himself. The series follows David, playing a fictionalized version of himself as he often ignores or misinterprets social conventions, leading to embarrassing situations.
In Sunday night's episode, the HBO comedy had a dedication card that read: “In memory of Richard Lewis.” 1947 – 2024.”
Louis deceased peacefully at his home in Los Angeles, California after suffering a heart attack.
“His wife, Joyce Lapinsky, thanks everyone for all the love, friendship and support and asks for privacy at this time,” his publicist, Jeff Abraham, said in a statement.
An HBO spokesperson told the Post in a statement Wednesday: “We are heartbroken to learn that Richard Lewis has passed away. His comedic genius, wit and talent were unmatched. Richard will always be a cherished member of the HBO and “Curb Your Enthusiasm” families, our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and all the fans who counted on Richard to brighten their days with laughter.
The comedian announced last April that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and retired from stand-up comedy.
In a Vanity Fair In an interview published last week, Lewis said of his diagnosis: “It changed my outlook in the sense that it forced me to look back and be grateful. I've had such an amazing life. I still do it. I'm a lucky man…I got in touch with more gratitude and also acceptance. It is imperative that I accept the fact that I have Parkinson's disease. If you don't accept it, it lingers in your brain and you become morbid and depressed. You lose energy.
In 2021, Lewis announced that he would only appear in one episode of season 11 of “Curb” due to his illness. He came back for the 12th and final season of the series, which premiered earlier this month on HBO. The series finale will air on April 7.
Lewis' wife Lapinsky – whom he married in 2005 – thanked his many fans around the world in a post on X three days after his death.
“This is Joyce, Richard’s wife.” she wrote on her page. “Thank you for your loving tributes. He would be beyond delighted and touched, just like me.
“In response to your many questions, I know Richard would appreciate donations in his memory to the Los Angeles-based charity. comediegivesback.com or the charity of your choice.
The “Curb” cast and other celebrities took to social media to post tributes to the late comedian.
“Richard and I were born three days apart in the same hospital and for most of my life he was like a brother to me,” David told People. “He had this rare combination of being the funniest person and also the sweetest. But today he made me sob and for that, I will never forgive him.
Cheryl Hines, who plays David's on-screen wife in the series, also spoke to the outlet about Lewis.
“When I was young, I had the biggest crush on Richard Lewis. He was the funniest person on stage and the most beautiful comedian. Then when I was cast in 'Curb Your Enthusiasm,' I got to work with him and it was a dream come true,” Hines said.
She continued: “Over the years, I learned who Richard really was and the gifts he gave. Yes, he was the comedian I fell in love with, but he was also one of the most loving people I knew. He would take the time to tell people that he loved what they meant to him, especially in recent years. Between takes of “Curb,” he would tell me how special I was to him and how much he loved me. I love you Richard.
Jamie Lee Curtis, who starred alongside Lewis in the ABC sitcom “Anything But Love,” said in a statement. Instagram Statement“I remember exactly where I was when I saw a billboard of his about a stand-up special on Sunset Boulevard while we were casting the ABC pilot 'Anything But Love' and I asked casting people to bring him to an audition to play my role. best friend/maybe boyfriend, Marty Gold.
“I thought he was handsome. He made me laugh, which is the one thing a strong, capable woman can't really do for herself,” Curtis continued. “He’s also the reason I’m sober.” He helped me. I am eternally grateful to Him for this act of grace alone. He found love with Joyce and that, of course, besides his sobriety, was what mattered most to him. I'm crying as I write this. Strange way to say thank you to a sweet and funny man. Rest in laughter, Richard.
Lewis' former co-star in “Robin Hood: Men in Tights,” Cary Elwes, called the late actor a “remarkable talent.”
“Noooo….. We were literally making plans to get together. …There was no one sweeter or more generous than you, my friend,” he posted on Instagram. “I miss you already and forever.”