Star of the iconic sitcom "Seinfeld," playing the lovable but eccentric neighbor Kramer, and infamous for a racist rant during a stand-up comedy routine.
Michael Richards, born on July 24, 1949, is an American actor and former stand-up comedian, best known for his iconic role as Cosmo Kramer on the hit NBC sitcom Seinfeld, which he played from 1989 to 1998.
Before becoming a household name, Richards started his career as a stand-up comedian, gaining national recognition when he was featured on Billy Crystal's first cable TV special. He then became a series regular on ABC's Fridays, showcasing his comedic talents to a wider audience.
Richards' breakout role came when he played Cosmo Kramer on Seinfeld, earning him three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. During the show's run, he made a guest appearance in Mad About You, reprising his role as Kramer. He also appeared in various TV shows, including Cheers.
His film credits include , Airheads, Young Doctors in Love, Problem Child, and Trial and Error, one of his few starring roles.
In 2000, Richards starred in his own sitcom, The Michael Richards Show, which was canceled after only two months. He then returned to stand-up, but faced controversy in 2006 when a racist tirade against hecklers at the Laugh Factory in California was captured on tape and released by TMZ. The backlash led to Richards retiring from stand-up in early 2007.
In 2009, he appeared as himself in the seventh season of Curb Your Enthusiasm alongside his fellow Seinfeld cast members. He later portrayed Frank in the sitcom Kirstie in 2013 and played Daddy Hogwood in the 2019 romantic comedy Faith, Hope & Love.
Richards was born in Culver City, California, to a Catholic family. His father, William Richards, an electrical engineer, died in a car crash when Michael was just two years old. His mother, Phyllis, a medical records librarian, never remarried.
"Giddy up!" - Cosmo Kramer's iconic catchphrase on Seinfeld
Michael Richards' legacy as Cosmo Kramer continues to entertain audiences, even years after the end of Seinfeld. Despite controversies, his impact on modern comedy and television remains undeniable.
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