Richard Pryor 1940-2005

In early ’75 I was living in West Hollywood, writing spec scripts, and wondering why there were never any girls in the neighborhood. One Tuesday night I decided to wander over to the Comedy Store on Sunset. In those days you could buy a $2.00 margarita, sit at the bar, and watch a full evening of bad desperate comics. (“Just try to get a cab in LA…etc.”) On this night, at about 11:30, unannounced, Richard Pryor came in to just try out some new material. For the next 45 minutes he had me absolutely pulverized. I never laughed so hard in my life. I was actually relieved when he got off the stage because my sides were hurting so. I’m sure in the days ahead you will hear and read many eloquent tributes to Richard Pryor, who passed away today. Just know he was the funniest person I have ever or will ever meet.