Richard Lewis has Parkinson’s disease.
The comedian, 75, revealed his diagnosis Sunday while announcing his retirement from stand-up.
Lewis explained in a video shared on Twitter that he had been sidelined from performing in recent years due to multiple surgeries followed by the Parkinson’s diagnosis, which he got about “two years ago.”
The “Curb Your Enthusiasm” star recalled finishing a tour about three and a half years ago and then being hit with a host of health issues.
“I said, ‘You know, I’m at the top of my game, after 50 years almost, I’m just going to call it quits,’ and I felt great about it, and then just out of the blue, the s–t hit the fan,” he said. “I had four surgeries back-to-back-to-back-to-back. It was incredible. It was bad luck, but it’s life.”
Lewis revealed that he underwent operations on his back and shoulder followed by hip and shoulder replacements.
“So there were months when I was just focusing on PT, like I am now,” he told fans.
The “Robin Hood: Men in Tights” star’s doctor diagnosed him with Parkinson’s not long after.
“I started walking a little stiffly,” he detailed. “I was shuffling my feet, and I went to a neurologist, and they gave me a brain scan, and I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.”
The disease is a brain disorder that, according to the National Institute on Aging, “causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.
“Symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen over time. As the disease progresses, people may have difficulty walking and talking.”
Lewis’ friends and fans shared their support.
“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 everyday.”
“I love @TheRichardLewis,” added Ben Stiller, who appeared in 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.”
Despite the diagnosis, Lewis is remaining upbeat because, as he noted, he was diagnosed later in life, “and they say it progresses very slowly, if at all, and I’m on the right meds, so I’m cool.”
The “Anything But Love” alum said he wanted to go public with his diagnosis so people “know that’s where it’s been at.
“I’m finished with stand-up. I’m just focusing on writing and acting. I have Parkinson’s disease, but I’m under a doctor’s care, and everything is cool.
“I love my wife, I love my little puppy dog and I love all my friends and family,” he concluded. “So now you know where it’s been at the last three and a half years. God bless you.”
