In a 2014 Los Angeles Times review of Richard Lewis’ standup, Susan King described his “neurotically perceptive comedy routines” that “hover in the realm of performance art,” likening them “sitting in on a very funny and often dark therapy session.” But even outside of his standup, Lewis was not hesitant to dive into the darker side of his life, including his experiences with addiction.
As CBS News reported, he experienced substance abuse issues before going sober in 1994 after alcoholism brought him close to death. He chronicled his experiences in his 2000 book, “The Other Great Depression,” in which he wrote, “One day I’m going to die. I’m about as sure of that as I am that I’ll never learn how to record a show in advance on my VCR. … But until that occurs … the one thing I’m most proud of is that I am no longer ruled by alcohol. … Now I don’t have the craving for alcohol, I have the craving for clarity and life.”
If you or anyone you know needs help with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
