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Richard Lewis
57quotes
Richard Lewis
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Richard Stein Lewis is commonly known as Richard Lewis.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on June 29, 1946, in Brooklyn, New York; still active in his career today.
Nationality and Profession(s)
American comedian, actor, podcaster, and writer.
Early Life and Background
Lewis grew up in a Jewish family in the Bensonhurst neighborhood of Brooklyn. His early life was marked by anxiety and insecurity, which would later become a central theme in his comedy routines. He attended Midwood High School but dropped out during his junior year to pursue a career in acting.
Major Accomplishments
Lewis's breakthrough as a stand-up comedian came in the late 1970s with his unique self-deprecating style and humor that focused on his own anxiety, relationships, and personal struggles. His popularity led to appearances on various TV shows, including "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" and "Saturday Night Live." He also had starring roles in several films and television series, such as "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and "Second Chance at First Love."
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Lewis's notable works include:
- The critically acclaimed HBO comedy special "I'm Sorry I Watched You" (2006)
- His popular podcast "The Lewis Black and Richard Lewis Show," which he co-hosts with comedian Lewis Black
Impact and Legacy
Lewis has left a lasting impact on the world of comedy, paving the way for future generations of comedians who focus on self-deprecation and personal struggles. He continues to tour and perform stand-up, entertaining audiences with his unique perspective on life.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Richard Lewis is widely quoted and remembered due to his innovative style as a comedian, which has influenced many others in the industry. His ability to effortlessly blend self-deprecation with clever wordplay makes him a beloved figure among comedy fans.
Quotes by Richard Lewis
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I was 23, and all sorts of people were coming in and out and watching me, like Steve Allen and Bette Midler. David Brenner certainly took me under his wing. To drive home to my little dump in New Jersey often knowing that Steve Allen said, 'You got it' - that validation kept me going in a big, big way.
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I know what my sweet spot has been. It's personal stuff, dysfunction, fear of intimacy, family stuff, psychology stuff. I eviscerate myself onstage.
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I certainly wouldn't be a dental hygienist - they should get the Medal of Honor just to look at people's gums.
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I was way more comfortable in front of strangers than I was in front of relatives. So when they would laugh at my dysfunctions or my anxiety, I felt less alone, and I still do it for the same reason.
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I never gave much thought to anything since I was 22 years old, when I got into the arts, so when Larry David came to my house in 2000, I didn't even think about it - I just thought about showing up on the set.
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When you do something in the moment, it may just be for that stage, that audience, that head space that you're in.
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My family - it wasn't an abusive family - they meant well, but they were in their own world.
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I like to read biographies of authors that I love, like Richard Yates. I also like to see what non-fiction authors are out there. My bible is Something Happened. It’s one of the greatest books I’ve ever read. But if I don’t read a Dostoevsky soon I’m going to kill myself.
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