(AP) – Fellow comedians, famous fans, co-stars and friends are paying tribute to Richard Lewis, who has died at the age of 76.
“Richard and I were born three days apart in the same hospital and he has been like a brother to me for most of my life. He has the rare combination of being very funny and yet very kind. But today he made me sob, and I will never forgive him.” — Lewis’ Curb Your Enthusiasm co-star Larry David said in a statement.
“He made me laugh, which is one of the things strong, capable women can never do on their own… He’s the reason I’m sober. He made me laugh. He helped me, and I am forever grateful to him for that act of grace alone.” jamie lee curtisLewis’ co-star on the sitcom “Anything But Love,” via Instagram.
“I’ve never met such a kind and empathetic comedic genius. He was so funny. And deep. As a stand-up, he was a truly iconic figure of the ’70s. Cool and funny. Self-deprecating and hip. He was a friend to my parents and the whole Stiller family.” — ben stillervia X, formerly on Twitter.
“A wonderful and funny man who will be missed by everyone. The world needs him now more than ever.” — albert brooks With X.
Actor and comedian Richard Lewis poses for a photo at a book signing for his novel “Reflections from Hell” at Book Soup on May 7, 2015 in West Hollywood, California. (Timothy Norris/Getty Images)
“I was really shocked by this news. Richard was my hero when I was a stand-up. I was lucky enough to get to know him and he was the most amazing person. Very supportive, kind, and truly one of the funniest people on the planet.” — “Bridesmaids” Director paul feig With X.
“His comedic talent, wit, and talent were unparalleled. Richard will always be a valued member of the HBO and Curb Your Enthusiasm family, and his family, friends, and Richard will always be with us every day.” Our deepest condolences go out to all the fans who could have counted on us to brighten up their lives with laughter.” —HBO, in a statement.
“I never had a brother. From the day he came over and said hello in 1989, Richard Lewis and I called each other ‘brother.’ I used to tease him. If people found out how good and kind a person he is, his career would be ruined. ” — Newscaster and commentator keith olbermann With X.
(From left) Actor Richard Lewis during an interview with Jay Leno, June 29, 1995 — (Photo by Margaret Norton/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images)
“Goodbye, Richard Lewis. Procol Harum has lost another fan, and the rest of us have lost a very good person.” — Actor and comedian michael mckean With X.
“Richard Lewis took part in the changing of the guard in the history of stand-up in the 1970s. His work is deeply personal, raw, and introspective, a style that has come to color much of modern comedy. It embodies and anticipates a certain, yes, nervous tone.” — National Comedy Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson said in a statement.
