Richard Lewis

Biography

Richard Lewis is an American stand-up comedian, born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Englewood, New Jersey. He graduated from Ohio State University in 1969 with a degree in marketing and communications. Initially writing ad copy, Lewis transitioned to comedy by penning jokes for various comedians, including Morty Gunty, before performing his own material in 1971 at venues like New York's Improvisation and Pips. His breakthrough came with an appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" in 1974. Lewis has produced several comedy specials, including "I'm in Pain" for Showtime and "I'm Doomed" for HBO, the latter earning him an Ace Nomination. His work includes the film "Diary of a Young Comic" and the "Magical Misery Tour," filmed in 1996. He has performed at notable venues, including a sold-out show at Carnegie Hall in December 1989. Lewis is married.