Richard Lewis, the renowned stand-up comedian, has recently announced that he is retiring from stand-up comedy after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Lewis, 75, known for his appearances on the HBO sitcom Curb Your Enthusiasm, made this announcement on social media, revealing the reasons behind his decision to step away from the stage.
In a video shared on social media, Lewis explains that he had been on a successful tour three and a half years ago. Feeling like he was at the top of his game after almost 50 years in the industry, he decided it was time to call it quits. However, as he was planning his retirement, his health took a turn for the worse. He underwent several surgeries back-to-back, including hip and shoulder replacements. Additionally, Lewis received the life-altering diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease.
Around two years ago, Lewis noticed difficulty in walking and stiffness in his movements. He consulted a neurologist who conducted a brain scan, leading to the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Despite this challenging situation, Lewis maintains a positive outlook. He mentions that due to receiving the diagnosis later in life, the progression of the disease is expected to be slow, if at all. He expresses gratitude for being under a doctor’s care and assures his fans that with the right medication, he is doing fine.
With his retirement from stand-up comedy, Lewis plans to focus on writing and acting. His comedic style, characterized by neurotic and self-deprecating humor, gained him popularity between the 1970s and 80s. Lewis made appearances on numerous late-night shows, including The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, Late Night with David Letterman, and The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. His acting career includes a Golden Globe-nominated performance on the sitcom Anything but Love and portraying a fictionalized version of himself on Curb Your Enthusiasm. Lewis has also been recognized as one of the best and most influential comedians in the industry.
As we bid farewell to this legendary comedian, let us remember the laughter he brought us throughout the years. Our thoughts are with Richard Lewis as he battles Parkinson’s and embarks on the next chapter of his career. Please share this news to spread awareness and show support for this comedy icon.
