Richard Lewis, a comedian known for his neurotic on-stage persona and self-deprecating humor, was born in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up in Englewood, New Jersey. His upbringing was marked by a distant relationship with his parents, which later fueled much of his comedic material. Lewis's first foray into show business came at a young age when he became the unwitting subject of a Candid Camera prank, where he was humorously suggested to pursue a career as a shepherd after taking an aptitude test. At the age of twelve, Lewis forged a lifelong friendship—and comedic rivalry—with future comedian Larry David at a summer camp. After completing high school, he attended Ohio State University and earned a degree in marketing. Despite starting a career as a copywriter, where he occasionally penned jokes for other comedians, the death of his father inspired Lewis to try performing stand-up himself. In 1971, he began performing at comedy clubs in New York City, sharing the stage with contemporaries like David Letterman, Andy Kaufman, Billy Crystal, and Larry David. Early in his career, he formed a close bond with the accomplished comedian David Brenner, who served as a mentor and guide, helping him advance in the comedy circuit. Lewis's comedic style drew inspiration from the neurotic wit of Woody Allen and the intense, angst-filled energy of Lenny Bruce. In 1979, he took on the role of a stand-up comedian in the television movie "Diary of a Young Comic," which he also co-wrote. His 1985 Showtime special, "I’m in Pain," marked his first televised hour stand-up performance, followed by HBO specials such as "I’m Exhausted" and "I’m Doomed," which continued to explore his signature themes of anxiety and despair. A hallmark of Lewis's legacy is his claim to have popularized the phrase “the ______ from hell,” a point of contention among quotation experts. In 1989, Lewis expanded his fan base by starring alongside Jamie Lee Curtis in the sitcom "Anything But Love," which ran for four successful seasons. Lewis's career was not without personal challenges. He struggled with alcoholism for many years, which he felt fueled his earlier performances. However, in 1994, he made the life-changing decision to quit drinking, finding that sobriety brought clarity and honesty to his comedic work. In 2000, he published "The Other Great Depression," an autobiography that delved into the neuroses and compulsions driving his life and comedic career. His recurring role as himself on Larry David’s "Curb Your Enthusiasm" introduced him to a new generation of comedy fans. In 2005, Lewis released a collection of his earlier works on DVD, titled "Concerts From Hell - The Vintage Years," which included a comprehensive interview about his life and career. Known for his frequent appearances on David Letterman's late-night shows since 1982, Lewis made over 60 appearances during his career, solidifying his status as a late-night television staple. Richard Lewis continues to be celebrated for his distinctive comedic style and the deep introspection that characterizes his performances.