Richard Lewis in New York City in 2015.Photo:Mireya Acierto/FilmMagic
Mireya Acierto/FilmMagic
Richard Lewismay be gone, but the actor was certainly not forgotten during this week’s episode ofCurb Your Enthusiasm.
The long-running HBO comedy series aired a dedication card honoring Lewis, whodied on Tuesdayat age 76, at the start of Sunday’s episode.
“In memory of Richard Lewis. 1947 - 2024,” the dedication card read.
“Comedian/Actor Richard Lewis passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles last night after suffering a heart attack,” Abraham said. “His wife, Joyce Lapinsky, thanks everyone for all the love, friendship and support and asks for privacy at this time.”
A spokesperson for HBO also confirmed the news, telling PEOPLE in a statement: “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 andCurb Your Enthusiasmfamilies, our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and all the fans who could count on Richard to brighten their days with laughter.”
Larry David with Richard Lewis in season 11 of ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’.John P. Johnson/HBO
John P. Johnson/HBO
Shortly after, tributes for Lewis poured in from the Hollywood community.
In a statement to PEOPLE, Lewis' longtimeCurbcostar and friend,Larry David, said of the sad news: “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.”
“When I was young I had the biggest crush on Richard Lewis. He was the funniest person on stage and the most handsome comedian. Then when I was cast onCurb Your Enthusiasm, I got to work with him and it was a dream come true," Hines said.
“Through 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 know. He would take time to tell the people he loved what they meant to him — especially in recent years. In between takes onCurb, he would tell me how special I was to him and how much he loved me,” she continued, adding, “I love you Richard.”
Richard Lewis and Larry David in season 12 of ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’.John Johnson/HBO
John Johnson/HBO
The originalCurb Your Enthusiasmdirector, Rob Weide, sharedphotoson social media with Lewis from 1984, 2004 and 2023 as he wrote, “Reeling from the news. The suddenness of it. I love you, Pal. Always have. Always will.”
On Friday, Lewis' wifeput out a statementon the late actor’sX (formerly Twitter) account, expressing her gratitude for the touching messages she’s received from fans since her husband’s death.
“This is Joyce, Richard’s wife,” she began. “Thank you for your loving tributes. He would be beyond thrilled and so touched, as am I.”
Lapinsky also responded to the “many queries” she’d received about how to best honor theCurb Your Enthusiasmalum and his legacy. “I know Richard would appreciate donations in his memory to the Los Angeles based charitycomedygivesback.comor the charity of your choice,” she concluded.
Richard Lewis and his wife Joyce Lapinsky.FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty
FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty
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Curb Your Enthusiasmairs Sundays at 10 p.m. ET on HBO.
source: people.com
