Curtis also touched on Lewis’s love for his wife, Joyce Lapinsky, emphasizing how their relationship, along with his sobriety, were the most important things in his life. “He found love with Joyce, and that, of course, along with being sober, was what mattered most to him. It makes me cry to write this.”
In a second Instagram post, Curtis shared additional sentiments about Lewis’s passing, including a photo and lyrics from the Anything But Love theme song, written by JD Souther. “Try to find it on YouTube and listen to it. If not, I’ve written it down here for you. Today I’m giving them to my friend Richard Lewis,” she wrote, sharing the poignant lyrics as a tribute.
Other tributes poured in from colleagues and friends. Larry David, Lewis’s longtime friend and co-star on Curb Your Enthusiasm, expressed his deep sorrow. “He’s been like a brother to me for most of my life,” David told HBO. “Richard and I were born three days apart in the same hospital. He was the funniest and nicest person at the same time, which doesn’t happen very often. But today he made me cry, and I’ll never forgive him for that.”
Cheryl Hines, who also worked with Lewis on Curb Your Enthusiasm, shared her memories and admiration. “When I was young, I had the biggest crush on Richard Lewis,” she wrote. “There was no one funnier or more handsome on stage than him. Then I got to work with him on Curb Your Enthusiasm, which was a dream come true.”
Hines spoke about the deeper qualities she discovered in Lewis over the years. “He was funny, but he was also one of the nicest people I know. Especially in the last few years, he would take the time to tell the people he loved how much they meant to him. He told me how important I was to him and how much he loved me in between takes on Curb.”
“To be loved by Richard Lewis was a real gift. Richard, I love you. We will miss you. I love you, Joyce, and everyone in Richard’s family. Lawrence, Richard loved you…You already know that, though.”
Lewis’s death leaves a significant void in the lives of his friends, family, and fans. His legacy, marked by humor, kindness, and resilience, will continue to inspire and comfort those who knew and loved him.