After news of his passing broke earlier today, several friends and contemporaries of famous comedian Richard Lewis have paid tribute to the late icon.
Larry David, who was close friends with Lewis for years and worked alongside him throughout Curb Your Enthusiasm’s 12 season run, released a statement mourning Lewis and praising him as “the funniest person and also the sweetest.”
“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” (via THR).
Fellow Curb Your Enthusiasm star Cheryl Hines posted her own tribute to Lewis on Instagram, reflecting on their friendship and time working together and describing the comedian as “a true gift.”
You can see Hines’ post below:
On Twitter, HBO posted about Lewis’ passing, stating that the legendary comedian’s “comedic brilliance, wit and talent were unmatched.”
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… pic.twitter.com/tNaQEqzhF1
— HBO (@HBO) February 28, 2024
Several other famed actors, comedians, directors, and more all paid tribute, including Mark Hamill, Bill Burr, Tim Allen, and Paul Feig. You can see a variety of the posts below:
“So very sad about the loss of my dear friend Richard Lewis. God bless your wife. So much legacy comedy you have left here. So very sad you’re gone.”
— Tim Allen (@ofctimallen) February 28, 2024
Absolutely devastated by this news. Richard was my hero when I was a standup. 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. You will be missed, my friend. https://t.co/NX4G9i39xX
— Paul Feig (@paulfeig) February 28, 2024
Noooo….. We were literally just making plans to get together. Besides your remarkable talent there was no one sweeter or more generous than you, my friend. I miss you already & forever. Rest in Power, Richard. Our sincere condolences to Joyce, his family & fans @TheRichardLewis pic.twitter.com/4vqxagwqiw
— Cary Elwes (@Cary_Elwes) February 28, 2024
RIP Richard Lewis. A brilliantly funny man who will missed by all. The world needed him now more than ever.
— Albert Brooks (@AlbertBrooks) February 28, 2024