Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Larry David, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ben Stiller pay tribute to comedian Richard Lewis after death at 76

Fellow comedians, famous fans, co-stars and friends are paying tribute to Richard Lewis after his death at age 76

The Associated Press
Wednesday 28 February 2024 23:16 GMT

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Fellow comedians, famous fans, co-stars and friends react to the death of Richard Lewis, who died Wednesday at age 76.

“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.” — Larry David, Lewis' “Curb Your Enthusiasm” co-star, in a statement.

“He made me laugh, which is the one thing that a strong, capable woman, can’t really do for herself.... He also is the reason I am sober. He helped me. I am forever grateful for him for that act of grace alone.” — Jamie Lee Curtis, Lewis' co-star on the sitcom “Anything But Love,” via Instagram.

“I never met a kinder, more empathetic comedy genius. He was so funny. And deep. As a stand-up he was really iconic in the '70s. Cool, funny, self deprecating and hip. He was a friend to my parents and the whole Stiller family.” — Ben Stiller, via X, formerly Twitter.

“A brilliantly funny man who will missed by all. The world needed him now more than ever.” — Albert Brooks on X.

“Absolutely devastated 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 wonderful man. So supportive and kind and truly one of the funniest people on the planet.” — “Bridesmaids” director Paul Feig on X.

"His comedic brilliance, wit and talent were unmatched. Richard will always be a cherished member of the HBO and Curb Your Enthusiasm families, our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and all the fans who could count on Richard to brighten their days with laughter.” — HBO, in a statement.

“I have never had a brother. From the day he came up and said hi in 1989 Richard Lewis and I called each other ‘brother.’ I used to kid him: if people knew how good and kind a person he was, it would ruin his career." — Newscaster and commentator Keith Olbermann on X.

“Farewell, Richard Lewis. Procol Harum has lost another fan, and the rest of us have lost a very good man.” — Actor and comedian Michael McKean on X.

“Richard Lewis was part of a changing of the guard in stand-up history during the 1970s; his work exemplified and anticipated the deeply personal, raw, introspective and yes, neurotic, tone that has come to color so much contemporary comedy." — National Comedy Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson, in a statement.

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in