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In a statement shared by HBO on Wednesday, Larry David paid a poignant tribute to his longtime friend and Curb Your Enthusiasm costar Richard Lewis, who died suddenly of a heart attack on Tuesday at the age of 76.
Lewis' run on Curb began with the 2000 pilot and continued over the course of 40 plus episodes. In 2021, Lewis underwent three surgeries and announced he would not return to the show as he focused on recovering.
However, he did eventually make an additional one-scene appearance and then returned again for Season 12.
In his statement, David remembered Lewis, who "was like a brother" to him throughout his life.
“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.”
People on social media were heartbroken over the news, and sent their condolences to David.
Richard Lewis brought joy to everything he did. He could spark laughter in a dark room.
He will be so missed.
— Jennifer Lawson (@JennyLynnLaw80) February 29, 2024
I can’t even comprehend the thought of Larry crying. RIP Richard.
— Sean McLachlan (@Sean__McLachlan) February 29, 2024
This is one of the saddest quotes I’ve read in a minute
— Mike X (@MikeXert) February 29, 2024
We lost a very funny man. Richard Lewis thank you for blessing us with your comedy https://t.co/beMmnsjwbk
— 💙💛Niqnaq (@_Niqnaq) February 29, 2024
That’s brotherly love right there rest in peace https://t.co/IaQv5HpdOM
— woop (@woop54) February 29, 2024
This one stings. I hope LD is okay 💔☹️ https://t.co/MIQZsrpoV4
— Joseph Yaden (@JosephYaden) February 29, 2024
Richard Lewis made me fall inlove with cinema, I'm forever grateful.
— Stanley tamz (@StanleyTamz) February 29, 2024
Trust, LD to sum it up perfectly at the saddest of times.
Poignant and spot-on.
He'll miss his friend, terribly.
— Iain Crawford🃏 (@icrawford17) February 28, 2024
I thought of Larry David when I first heard the news. Condolences to his loved ones.
— mary jane (@JaneEnygma57) February 28, 2024
A very sad day for all who loved his comedic style. One doesn't have to know someone personally to be sad knowing he won't be there to make you laugh again. I saw his Showtime and HBO specials, he was one of a kind. Thank you Richard for all you gave to everyone around the world.
— Tdiddy (@tedrodriguez195) February 29, 2024
My thoughts are with Richard’s family and Larry - so sad for your passing and loss and so grateful for sharing and letting us in on the jokes. And for letting us carry a piece of your sobbing loss.
— Blandishmentbob (@Blandishmentbob) February 29, 2024
The moment when a man you’ve wondrously enjoyed, admired, envied displays his frail humanity and you finally get it. He’s been a friend. He’s been a teacher all along. And I’m so sorry for his loss.
— Blandishmentbob (@Blandishmentbob) February 29, 2024
HBO also released a statement after learning of Lewis' passing.
"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 who could count on Richard to brighten their days with laughter."
Other celebrities and close friends of Lewis honored him, as well.
His former Anything but Love costar Jamie Lee Curtis took to Instagram to pay tribute to Lewis, who she said is the reason she is sober.
“Richard’s last text to me, was hoping that I could convince ABC/Disney to put out another boxed set of episodes of the show."
“He also is the reason I am sober. He helped me. I am forever grateful for him for that act of grace alone."
"He found love with Joyce and that, of course, besides his sobriety, is what mattered most to him. I’m weeping as I write this."
"Strange way of saying thank you to a sweet and funny man. Rest in laughter, Richard. My Marty, I love you, Hannah!”
Jon Stewart, Paul Feig, Albert Brooks and Cheryl Hines were among the many other celebrities and pals sharing their heartbreak and love for the comedian.
Absolutely heartbreaking. Sending our condolences to all of his loved ones.