Richard Lewis, lovably neurotic comedian and “Curb Your Enthusiasm” star, dies at 76

Lewis announced his retirement from stand-up last year and disclosed that he had Parkinson's disease.

Richard Lewis, the comedian and actor known for his neurotic, self-deprecating humor, his distinctive delivery, and his recurring role as a fictionalized version of himself on Curb Your Enthusiasm, died Tuesday at his home in Los Angeles. He was 76.

His publicist, Jeff Abraham, said Lewis passed away peacefully after a heart attack. Abraham added that Lewis' wife, Joyce Lapinsky, "thanks everyone for all the love, friendship and support and asks for privacy at this time."

Lewis announced his retirement from stand-up last year and disclosed that he had been living with Parkinson's disease. He said at the time that he would continue to act and write, and he can currently be seen in the final season of Curb opposite his longtime friend Larry David.

In a statement paying tribute to Lewis, David said Wednesday, "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."

Lewis rose to prominence with his unique brand of stand-up in the '70s and '80s, appearing on The Tonight Show With Johnny Carson 22 times. He was a frequent guest on other late-night shows, including Late Night With David Letterman, and he moved on to a starring role in the sitcom Anything But Love alongside Jamie Lee Curtis in 1989. Lewis also delivered scene-stealing supporting turns in numerous films, such as Robin Hood: Men in Tights and Leaving Las Vegas.

Lewis began his long run on Curb Your Enthusiasm in 2000, in the HBO comedy's first episode. His other screen credits included 7th Heaven, Two and a Half Men, The Simpsons, Alias, Everybody Hates Chris, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Bojack Horseman, She's Funny That Way, and Sandy Wexler.

Lewis chronicled his struggles with depression and drug addiction, as well as his recovery, on stage and in a 2000 memoir, The Other Great Depression.

HBO said in a statement Wednesday, "We are heartbroken to learn that Richard Lewis has passed away. 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."

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Read the original article on Entertainment Weekly.