Michael Richards Biography: Michael Anthony Richards born July 24, 1949 is an American actor and former stand-up comedian best known for his iconic role as Cosmo Kramer on the NBC sitcom Seinfeld, which aired from 1989 to 1998.
Michael Richards Biography
Best known for his unforgettable role as Cosmo Kramer on the iconic sitcom Seinfeld (1989), West Coast comedy actor Michael Richards was born on July 24, 1949, and grew up in South Los Angeles, California. He is the son of Phyllis (Nardozzi), an Italian-American medical records librarian, and William Richards, an electrical engineer.
Michael Richards Biography 2025 Details
| Born |
Michael Anthony Richards
July 24, 1949 Culver City, California, U.S.
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|---|---|
| Alma mater | The Evergreen State College (BA) |
| Occupation(s) | Actor, comedian |
| Years active | 1979–present |
| Spouses |
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| Children | 2 |
| Category | Singers Bio |
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About Michael Richards
Michael Anthony Richards is an American actor and former stand-up comedian. He achieved global recognition for starring as Cosmo Kramer on the NBC television sitcom Seinfeld from 1989 to 1998.
Michael Richards Achievements
His portrayal of the eccentric and unpredictable Kramer earned him widespread acclaim and three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Richards began his career in stand-up comedy and gained early national attention after appearing on Billy Crystal’s first cable TV special. He later became a regular cast member on ABC’s sketch comedy show Fridays. While Seinfeld brought Richards global fame, he also made notable guest appearances on popular shows like Mad About You—where he reprised his role as Kramer—and Cheers.
Michael Richards Personal Life
Richards showed an early flair for performance, excelling as a top competitor in the Forensic League during grade school. He acted in numerous high school and college productions while holding jobs as an ambulance attendant and hospital orderly. During the Vietnam War, Richards served in the U.S. Army as a medic and was later selected to write and direct educational plays on drug abuse and race relations for the Army’s V-Corp Training Roadshow.
Michael Richards Wiki
- Born: 24 July 1949 (age 76 years), Culver City, California, United States
- Spouse: Beth Skipp (m. 2010), Cathleen Lyons (m. 1974–1993)
- Books: Entrances and Exits
- Children: Sophia Richards
- Parents: Phyllis Nardozzi, William Richards
- Height: 1.91 m
Early Life
Michael Richards was born in Culver City, California, into a Catholic family. His mother, Phyllis (née Nardozzi), worked as a medical records librarian. For much of his early life, Richards believed his father was William Richards, an electrical engineer who had died in a car accident when Michael was just two years old. However, he later discovered that his mother had become pregnant with him as the result of a sexual assault. Despite considering both abortion and adoption, she ultimately chose to raise him as a single mother. Richards was also largely brought up by his grandmother, who struggled with schizophrenia.
He graduated from Thousand Oaks High School and developed an interest in acting after taking a theater class in seventh grade. In 1968, he appeared as a contestant on The Dating Game, though he was not selected for a date. Richards was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he trained as a medic and was stationed in West Germany. While serving, he joined a theatrical troupe called The Training Road Show, which performed educational plays.
Quick Profile
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael Anthony Richards |
| Date of Birth | July 24, 1949 |
| Birthplace | Culver City, California, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Evergreen State College (B.A. in Drama) |
| Famous For | Seinfeld, Fridays, UHF |
| Spouse | Beth Skipp (married 2010) |
| Children | Sophia Richards, Antonio Baz Richards |
| Net Worth | Estimated $30 million |
Michael Richards Family Background
Michael Richards was born in Culver City, California, to Phyllis Nardozzi, a medical records librarian. His mother’s Italian-American background contributed to the expressive personality that later became a hallmark of his comedic style. Though he was long told that his father was William Richards, an electrical engineer who died when Michael was a toddler, Richards later learned that his biological father was unknown, and that he was the result of a traumatic incident. Raised by his single mother and a grandmother battling schizophrenia, Richards spent much of his early life in South Los Angeles.
He discovered a passion for performance early on, actively participating in theater and debate during high school. After graduating from Thousand Oaks High School, he went on to study drama at Evergreen State College, where he earned his B.A. His formal education helped him cultivate his skills in acting and physical comedy, setting the stage for a career in entertainment.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
Richards began his professional journey in stand-up comedy, where he quickly stood out with a distinctive style that emphasized physicality and unpredictability. His early exposure came from an appearance in Billy Crystal’s first cable TV special, which showcased his unusual and creative comedic voice. He then joined the sketch comedy show Fridays (1980–1982) on ABC, where he developed his improvisational talent and gained wider attention. Richards also appeared in a number of films during this period, including Young Doctors in Love (1982) and the cult comedy UHF (1989), further establishing his reputation as a unique comic talent.
Richards landed the role of a lifetime as Cosmo Kramer on Seinfeld, created by Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David. The quirky, unpredictable neighbor quickly became a fan favorite and pop culture staple. Richards’ performance—marked by exaggerated body language, wild entrances, and a brilliant sense of timing—earned him widespread acclaim and three Primetime Emmy Awards.
Notable Works and Recognition
Outside of Seinfeld, Richards took on roles in films such as Problem Child (1990) and made guest appearances on popular shows like Cheers and Mad About You. Though his role in The Michael Richards Show (2000) was short-lived, his legacy as Kramer remained strong.
In 2006, Richards faced significant controversy after using racially offensive language during a stand-up routine, which drew widespread criticism. He later issued a public apology and largely stepped away from the public eye. In subsequent interviews, Richards reflected on the incident as a painful moment of personal reckoning.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Despite career setbacks, Michael Richards’ portrayal of Kramer left an enduring mark on television history. His ability to merge physical comedy with character nuance helped redefine what a sitcom sidekick could be. While his career has seen highs and lows, Richards remains a major figure in 1990s comedy and an enduring symbol of the golden era of network television.
Personal Life and Relationships
Michael Richards married family therapist Cathleen Lyons in 1974. The couple had a daughter, Sophia Richards, born in 1975, before divorcing in 1993. In 2010, Richards wed actress Beth Skipp after nearly eight years of dating. Together, they have a son, Antonio Baz Richards, born in 2011. Despite his public fame, Richards has led a largely private personal life, preferring time with his family away from the spotlight. Occasionally, he has offered glimpses into his home life during interviews but generally maintains a low profile.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Military Service: Richards served in the U.S. Army from 1970 to 1972, during the Vietnam era.
- Health: In 2018, he was diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer, which he successfully treated.
- Freemasonry: He is a member of the Freemasons and has expressed pride in the values and community it represents.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Richards supports causes related to veterans and education but chooses to keep his charitable work largely out of the public eye. Despite professional setbacks, particularly in the mid-2000s, he remains a major figure in television history. His mastery of physical comedy and unique performance style have left a lasting impact on generations of comedic actors.
Future Plans and Cultural Influence
Richards published a memoir titled Entrances and Exits, offering personal insights into his life, career, and time in Hollywood. Though no longer active in mainstream entertainment, his contributions—particularly his unforgettable role as Kramer—remain influential in the landscape of TV comedy.
Michael Richards Net Worth 2025
Michael Richards has an estimated net worth of $30 million. A significant portion of his earnings came from his time on Seinfeld, where he reportedly made up to $600,000 per episode in the show’s later seasons. Richards owns multiple properties, including a high-end residence in Pacific Palisades, California. Though he avoids flashy business ventures, his investments and real estate choices have supported a comfortable, low-key lifestyle.
FAQs
How much does Michael Richards make?
Upon breaking down the earnings from the 180 episodes of Seinfeld, the lovable weirdo appeared to rake in some jaw-dropping numbers for his role in the ’90s sitcom. Eventually, that salary led the actor’s net worth to propel and stand at a staggering $30M as of 2024. How Much Did Michael Richards Earn from Seinfeld?
Does Michael Richards still make money off Seinfeld?
And the 74-year-old actor continues to benefit from substantial monthly royalties stemming from the show even long after its conclusion. Reports suggest that he still receives significant earnings from the sitcom to maintain his status as a millionaire.
What does Michael Richards do now?
In 2019, Richards played Daddy Hogwood in the romantic comedy Faith, Hope & Love starring Peta Murgatroyd and Robert Krantz. In June 2024, Richards released a memoir entitled Entrances and Exits.
What surgery did Michael Richards have?
Richards told the outlet that, to treat his prostate cancer, his doctors recommended removing his entire prostate. The procedure saved his life.
Is Michael Richards a vegetarian?
Kramer actor Michael Richards was virtually a vegan, so during the scene where Kramer eats chicken in bed, he actually only chewed chicken skin, and spat it out into a bucket between takes.