Comedian and actor Richard Lewis passed away: What was the cause of death? – Spoiler US

“Curb Your Enthusiasm” star Richard Lewis passed away at age 76 on Tuesday, Feb. 27th. According to Variety, the cause of death of the actor and comedian was a heart attack. He was at his Los Angeles residence. Lewis is survived by his wife, Joyce Lapinsky.

HBO released a statement lamenting the news: “We are devastated to hear of Richard Lewis’ passing. His comedic brilliance, sharp wit, and unparalleled talent will be remembered. Richard will forever hold a special place in the hearts of the HBO and ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ families. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all the fans who found joy in Richard’s humor.”

Lewis, who began his acting career in the 70s and was well-known for his self-deprecating humor, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease last April. He had announced his retirement from stand-up comedy.

Richard Lewis’ prolific career on film and TV

After appearing “Diary of a Young Comic” in 1977, Lewis gained recognition in the 1980s and 1890s thanks to his comedy specials such as “I’m in Pain” (1985), “I’m Exhausted” (1988), “I’m Doomed” (1990), and “Richard Lewis: The Magical Misery Tour” (1997).

Apart from “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” Lewis appeared in several sitcoms, including ABC’s “Anything But Love.” In it, he shared the screen with Jamie Lee Curtis for four seasons. Other TV shows in which he starred were “Daddy Dearest” with Don Rickles and “Hiller and Diller” featuring Kevin Nealon. He also guest starred in many well-known shows such asLaw & Order: Special Victims Unit, Two and Half Men, The Simpsons and more.

When it comes to film, some of his most notable credits include “Robin Hood: Men in Tights” (1993), the 1995 dramas “Leaving Las Vegas” and “Drunk,” the 1997 romantic comedy “Hugo Pool.” One of his most recent film appearances was in the 2014 comedy “She’s Funny That Way.”

Stars pay tribute to Richard Lewis

“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,” said David Larry in a statement shared by Variety.

Meanwhile, Jamie Lee Curtis shared her sorrow in a lengthy Instagram post, thanking him for his friendship. “He also is the reason I am sober. He helped me. I am forever grateful for him for that act of grace alone. He found love with Joyce and that, of course, besides his sobriety, is what mattered most to him. I’m weeping as I write this. Strange way of saying thank you to a sweet and funny man. Rest in laughter, Richard. My Marty, I love you, Hannah!” she concluded.

Steve Martin, Jon Stewart, Michael McKean, Paula Poundstone, Paul Feig, Albert Brooks, Mike Scully, Rex Chapman, Ben Stiller, Nancy Sinatra and more stars are sharing their condolences on social media: