Michael Richards Makes Triumphant Return to Comedy Stage After 17 Years

VENTURA, Calif. — Michael Richards, best known for his role as Cosmo Kramer on the beloved sitcom Seinfeld, returned to the stage for the first time in nearly two decades on Wednesday night. The event, titled “Michael Richards: An Evening of Conversations, Questions and Answers,” took place at Ventura Music Hall as part of a mini-tour across California.

Richards, who faced significant backlash after a 2006 stand-up performance that included a racially charged tirade, has been absent from the public eye for years. His return came fresh off the publication of his memoir, “Entrances and Exits,” which explores his life, career, and reflection following the infamous incident.

The audience had no idea what to expect from Richards, and neither did his moderator, veteran writer Todd Gold. “We have no idea what’s going to happen, which makes it really exciting,” Gold said as he kicked off the event. The first 90 minutes of the show featured unscripted conversations, with the final 30 reserved for audience questions submitted prior to the performance.

Richards captivated the crowd with a variety of emotions throughout the night, from somber reflections on his past actions to hilarious reenactments of Kramer’s antics. He vividly recalled the incident at the Laugh Factory that nearly ended his career, stating, “I was a naughty, naughty man that night. I said some awful things. I was trying to channel comedy, but I lost control.”

A standing ovation greeted Richards as he returned to the stage, showcasing the audience’s support. “Yeah, I’m close to the bone,” he remarked when asked about embracing his authentic self during the show.

The evening was a blend of heartfelt moments and comedic relief, as Richards discussed his complex relationships with fellow comedians and his approach to the character of Kramer. His loose and spontaneous style led to many unforgettable moments, both scripted and improvised.

Reflecting on his past roles, he mentioned his desire to connect with original experiences, noting, “I spent many years just looking closely at emotion and dialogue with myself.” The actor also shared anecdotes from his Seinfeld audition, revealing that he initially didn’t seem like a suitable candidate for the groundbreaking sitcom.

Despite the ups and downs of his career, Richards’ humor and vulnerability struck a chord with the audience, illustrating his journey and the unpredictability of life. “I wanted to show that we can do this,” he said, referring to the physical comedy that defined his role as Kramer.

The mini-tour will continue with stops in San Luis Obispo, Menlo Park, Monterey, and Petaluma, providing fans with more opportunities to experience Richards’ unique brand of comedy. As his first performance in seventeen years concluded, the hope for a lasting return to the stage resonated among the audience.