Richard Jeni

Possessing keen insight and a razor sharp wit, comedian Richard Jeni was a tireless stand-up performer who toured relentlessly and starred in a number of cable specials that helped make him one of the hardest working and most beloved comics in the business. Drawing big laughs from varied topics like dating, dieting and politics, Jeni developed a reputation as a comic's comic, while earning a great deal of respect for his generous support of his friends. After making his television debut on "Just for Laughs" (Showtime, 1986), Jeni landed his first solo special, "Richard Jeni: The Boy from New York City" (Showtime, 1989), while becoming a regular on late night talk shows. He went on to his second comedy special, "Richard Jeni: Crazy from the Heat" (Showtime, 1991), before going over to rival HBO for "Richard Jeni: Platypus Man" (1992). Jeni next turned up in a supporting role opposite Jim Carrey in "The Mask" (1994), which turned out to be his most significant feature role. Following a failed sitcom, "Platypus Man" (UPN, 1995-96), he hit his peak with a seemingly non-stop touring schedule that ultimately did not result in many more feature and television appearances outside of his stand-up routine. In March 2007, Jeni committed suicide following a diagnosis of depression and schizophrenia that shocked friends and fans alike, leaving behind an incomplete career that, despite its tragic end, was full of laughter.