Jamie Lee Curtis honors Richard Lewis for her recovery: Finding solace in laughter
Jamie Lee Curtis pays tribute to the memory of her dear friend, Richard Lewis, as she reflects on how his humor and support aided her journey to sobriety. The actress expresses her heartfelt emotions following the passing of the beloved comedian and actor in Los Angeles.
Jamie Lee Curtis expressed her love for her late friend and former costar, Richard Lewis, who passed away at his home in Los Angeles on Tuesday. Lewis, a comedian and actor known for his role in "Curb Your Enthusiasm," had been battling Parkinson's disease.
Curtis shared a series of photos on Instagram featuring herself and Lewis, reminiscing about their time working together on the sitcom "Anything But Love" from 1989 to 1992.
Upon hearing the news of Richard Lewis's passing, Curtis reflected on the moment she first encountered him on a billboard promoting a stand-up special on Sunset Boulevard. She vividly recalled asking the casting team to bring him in for an audition to portray her character's best friend or potential love interest, Marty Gold, in the ABC pilot. Curtis was captivated by Lewis's charm and humor, ultimately leading to his casting when he unintentionally made her burst into laughter with his mispronunciation of "Bundt cake."
Curtis explained that Lewis hated working with a live audience even though he was a brilliant stand-up comic. She continued by mentioning that he blew everyone else away in a love triangle show. The pilot was not picked up, but the chemistry with Richard was so great that they decided to revamp the original pilot, which ultimately became the show they produced for a couple of years.
Comedian and actor Richard Lewis poses for a portrait at his home on February 20, 2020.
Comedian and actor Richard Lewis poses for a portrait at his home on February 20, 2020.
Emily Berl/For The Washington Post/Getty Images
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Comedian Richard Lewis, known for his role on 'Curb Your Enthusiasm,' has passed away at the age of 76.
“He was also a stand-up comic and hated performing in front of a live audience, while I, who had never been on stage before, enjoyed it,” she shared. “He would strategically place his lines all over the set - on props, door frames, even on my face during close-up shots. He was always seen carrying a clipboard with his lines written on it. Despite his quirks, he proved to be a talented actor, with a depth of emotion and incredible sense of humor.”
She recalled how they supported each other through the death of friend and costar, Richard Frank, and also mourned the loss of John Ritter, who appeared on the series in five episodes and was an executive producer.
“He sent me a text hoping that I could convince ABC/Disney to release another boxed set of episodes of the show,” she shared.
She ended her message with a heartfelt mention of Lewis, expressing gratitude for his role in helping her maintain sobriety. Lewis not only supported her in staying sober but also found love with Joyce, which was a source of great joy for him. With tears in her eyes, she bid farewell to Richard, expressing appreciation for his kindness and humor. Lastly, she expressed her love for Marty and Hannah, sending them her love.
The tributes keep pouring in for Lewis, known recently for playing himself on “Curb Your Enthusiasm” opposite Larry David, who called Lewis “a brother to me.”
Editor's P/S:
Jamie Lee Curtis's heartfelt tribute to her late friend and costar, Richard Lewis, is a moving testament to their deep bond and the profound impact he had on her life. Curtis's vivid recollections of their time working together on "Anything But Love" paint a vivid portrait of Lewis as a brilliant comedian and actor with a mischievous charm and a profound sense of humor. Her anecdotes about Lewis's quirks and his unwavering support during challenging times highlight the depth of their friendship and the indelible mark he left on her heart.
Curtis's words also serve as a reminder of the transformative power of art and friendship. Their collaboration on "Anything But Love" not only brought joy to audiences but also forged an unbreakable connection between them. Lewis's role in Curtis's journey of sobriety and his own personal growth through finding love are a testament to the healing and transformative power that human connections can bring. His passing leaves a void in the entertainment world and the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy of laughter, kindness, and unwavering friendship will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to cross his path.
