On Sunday, popular comedian Richard Lewis announced his Parkinson’s diagnosis in an emotional Twitter video post.
Lewis has appeared on many shows in his 40-year career, including starring in the long-running sitcom “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”
The comedian was aware of his condition for the past two years but chose not to share the news with his fans — until last Sunday.
“I have Parkinson’s disease,” Lewis disclosed. “But I’m under a doctor’s care, and everything is cool.” He added, “I’m finished with standup. I’m just focusing on writing and acting” from here on out.
The video post begins with Lewis sharing he’d “just wrapped” filming on Season 12 of “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” noting he was “so grateful to be part of that show.”
The comedian quickly pivoted to share the sad news:
“But you know, the last three and a half years, I’ve had sort of a rocky time … and people have said, ‘Gee I haven’t heard from you, are you still touring?’ Well, here’s really what happened …”
Lewis noted that he began to experience physical challenges about three and a half years ago, which led to a decision not to “be on the road” anymore.
“I said, ‘You know, I’m at the top of my game,'” the comic added. “After 50 years almost, I’m just going to call it quits.’ And I felt great about that …”
— Richard Lewis (@TheRichardLewis) April 24, 2023
The comedian noted that he had four operations in recent years: back surgery, shoulder surgery, shoulder replacement surgery and hip replacement surgery.
Lewis added: “On top of that, two years ago, I started walking stiffly. I was shuffling my feet. I went to a neurologist, and they gave me a brain scan, and I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, “Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder that affects the nervous system and the parts of the body controlled by the nerves. Symptoms start slowly. The first symptom may be a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand. Tremors are common, but the disorder may also cause stiffness or slowing of movement.”
Lewis expressed some optimism as he noted that because he “got it late in life … they say you progress very slowly, if at all.”
Lewis’ friends and fans have expressed their concern and well-wishes on Twitter.
“I love you, Richard! Before I ever knew you, I loved watching you perform,” wrote “Curb” co-star Cheryl Hines. “You’re just a beautiful person. I hope the love you’re receiving from everyone will continue to make you stronger every day.”
I love you, Richard! Before I ever knew you, I loved watching you perform. You’re just a beautiful person. ♥️♥️ I hope the love you’re receiving from everyone will continue to make you stronger everyday.
— Cheryl Hines (@CherylHines) April 24, 2023
“I love @TheRichardLewis,” added Ben Stiller, who appeared on Season 4 of the Larry David sitcom. “One of the funniest ever. Richard, you’re an amazing person, and I’ve been your fan since I was about 12, which is a very long time. And we’re both still here! Stay strong.”
“Star Wars” icon Mark Hamill also offered his support, writing: “Wishing you all the best & thanking you for a lifetime of laughs.”
Wishing you all the best & thanking you for a lifetime of laughs. ❤️-mh
— Mark Hamill (@MarkHamill) April 24, 2023
Lewis has been a regular cast member on “Curb.” According to the New York Post, Lewis played a semi-autobiographical version of himself on the “Curb.” Lewis plays “Larry’s neurotic, nebbishy comedian friend whose relationships always seem to end in disaster.”
