RIP: Richard Pryor (1940-2005)

[PHXviaDTW]

Died today of a heart attack.

 

[O]

One of the best comedians of all time, not to mention groundbreaking.
Thanks for the laughs.

 

[LoyaltyisaCurse]

That sucks!!

 

[KingofCards]

 

[Brian in Mesa]

Richard Pryor Dies
Dec 10, 2005

Legendary comedian Richard Pryor is dead. He passed away early this morning in Los Angeles at the age of 65.

Richard Pryor was born in Peoria, Illinois on December 1,1940. He was raised in a brothel owned by his grandmother. Pryor's mother lived with him but spent most of her time working as a prostitute. At age six, Richard found himself in the wrong alley, and was sexually molested. These times took a toll on Pryor, causing him to drop out of high school at age 14, and become a father himself at 17.

Richard's professional career began as a stand up comedian in his hometown of Peoria. In 1963, he moved to New York City, establishing himself as a successful performer in clubs and on television. As a comedian, Richard looked up to Bill Cosby and created his stage presence mimicking his idol. Eventually Pryor sharpened his comic edge and created an act that was often raw, sometimes shocking, and always ground breaking.

In 1972, Pryor went into film, earning rave reviews for his dramatic role as "Piano Man" in "Lady Sings the Blues" Richard tried many different approaches, but his niche was definitely in comedy. In 1976, he played the role of ball player Charlie Snow in "The Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars and Motor Kings". The next decade started out successful with the smash comedy "Stir Crazy",but Pryor's personal life was another story.

In 1980, he accidentally set himself on fire while free basing with cocaine. Pryor's downward spiral continued, as he struggled with a substance abuse problem including drinking. In 1986, he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, but kept it a secret for years. Pryor was seen little in the 90's, making rare tv guest shots on shows that included Chicago Hope and Martin. Pryor will be remembered as a man who led a troubled life, but found a way to always make us laugh, even through his pain.

 

[phillycard]

R.i.p.

The reason I do comedy today. Comedians of all colors owe him a debt of gratitude.

 

[Assface]

Rip

 

[Dback Jon]

RIP - Silver Streak was my favorite of his movies.

I heard the news from "Weekend Update" on SNL - they showed a great clip of him and Chevy Chase.