Let me tell you a story about a moment that changed everything. During the second season of Seinfeld, Michael Richards strolled into Jerry’s apartment as the unforgettable Cosmo Kramer, and something magical happened. The studio audience erupted into spontaneous applause—a moment that marked the birth of a legendary character. That was the moment Michael Richards realized he had created something special.
“That was the ultimate sign of approval,” Michael recalls in a candid conversation with Closer. “Kramer wasn’t just a character; he was a breakout star. And for me, it was a breakthrough moment in my career.”
From Stand-Up Comedian to Emmy-Winning Star
In his new memoir, Entrances and Exits, Michael Richards takes readers on a journey through his life, from his humble beginnings as a stand-up comedian to becoming one of the most beloved characters in television history. At 74 years old, Michael reflects on his journey with honesty and vulnerability, sharing not only the triumphs but also the challenges he faced along the way.
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“I wanted to share the story of how I created Kramer and the immense amount of work that went into bringing him to life for nine seasons,” Michael explains. “It wasn’t just about being funny—it was about crafting a character that resonated with people and became a part of their lives.”
The Darker Side of Fame
But Michael’s story isn’t just about the highs. In Entrances and Exits, he delves into some of the darkest moments of his life, including the infamous on-stage rant in 2006 that nearly derailed his career. That incident, where anger got the better of him, left a lasting impact on Michael, forcing him to confront his own flaws and biases.
“I let anger consume me that night, and I deeply regret what I said,” Michael admits. “It was a wake-up call for me to become more aware of the darkness that exists within all of us. We have to be sensitive to each other and strive to be better people.”
Michael also opens up about his battle with stage 1 prostate cancer in 2018, a fight that changed his perspective on life. “Being diagnosed with cancer made me realize how precious life is,” he says. “It taught me to slow down, appreciate the little things, and become more empathetic toward others.”
A Life Shaped by Passion and Dedication
Michael Richards wasn’t always destined for the spotlight. Growing up in Los Angeles, he spent his childhood sneaking onto studio backlots, fascinated by the world of entertainment. But acting wasn’t on his radar until he took a theater class in junior high school. By the time he was 19, Michael was already making a name for himself as a warm-up comedian at the legendary Troubadour nightclub in West Hollywood, where he prepared audiences for iconic bands like The Doors, The Byrds, and Linda Ronstadt.
“We were paid $25 a night to go crazy on stage while the bands set up,” Michael recalls with a laugh. “It was chaotic, but it was also where I learned to connect with an audience and find my voice as a performer.”
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The Magic of Seinfeld
When Seinfeld premiered in 1989, it was Michael’s third television show, but it was unlike anything he’d done before. “The four of us were pros,” he says, referring to his co-stars Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jason Alexander, and Jerry Seinfeld. “Julia had just come off Saturday Night Live, Jason was a Broadway star with a Tony Award, and Jerry was already a hugely successful stand-up comedian. We were all at the top of our game, and the chemistry we had was something special.”
Seinfeld went on to run for nine seasons, becoming a cornerstone of NBC’s “Must See TV” lineup and leaving an indelible mark on television history. For Michael, it wasn’t just about the fame—it was about creating something that would last.
A New Chapter in Life
Michael’s life today is a testament to his resilience and growth. He and his wife, Beth, are proud parents of their 12-year-old son, Antonio. Parenthood has brought a new level of fulfillment and perspective to Michael’s life. “Raising Antonio is one of the greatest blessings I’ve ever experienced,” he says. “It’s taught me patience, love, and the importance of being present in the moment.”
Michael’s battle with cancer also played a pivotal role in reshaping his outlook on life. “Cancer forced me to slow down and appreciate the beauty of existence,” he reflects. “It made me more empathetic and understanding of others’ struggles.”
On Sensitivity and Comedy
Some comedians argue that we’ve become too sensitive in recent years, but Michael sees it differently. “I think these are good times,” he says. “Being sensitive is a positive thing. It’s important to be aware of how our words and actions affect others. Comedy can handle it—it always has.”
