‘Seinfeld’ Star Michael Richards Opens Up About His Battle With Cancer, Overcoming Racist Rant

Michael Richards, known for his role as Cosmo Kramer on the iconic sitcom Seinfeld, opened up about his health battle and journey of self-reflection in his forthcoming memoir, Entrances and Exits.

Richards, 74, revealed that he was diagnosed with stage 1 prostate cancer in 2018. “I thought, well, this is my time. I’m ready to go,” Richards told People. “Then my son came to mind just a few seconds later, and I heard myself saying, ‘I’ve got a 9-year-old, and I’d like to be around for him. Is there any way I can get a little more life going?'” 

The actor ultimately underwent a full prostate removal surgery to contain the cancer.

Richards’ cancer battle was a catalyst for him to document his life experiences in his memoir, which he says contains over 40 journals he has kept over the years. “I’m turning 75, so maybe wanting to do that is something that comes with being my age,” he explained. “I wanted to connect with feelings and memory. I’m surprised at how much I was able to remember.”

Aside from his health journey, the memoir also delves into Richards’ infamous racist rant he delivered during a performance at the Laugh Factory in 2006. “I was immediately sorry the moment I said it onstage,” he acknowledged, adding that he does not expect to be forgiven for his past actions. “It was time to disappear and finally pay attention to where all of my anger was coming from. The most I could do for everybody was go home and get my s— together.”

Entrances and Exits is set to be released on June 4. As he reflects on his experiences, Richards hopes to connect with his audience and share the lessons he has learned.

Last year, Jerry Seinfeld floated the idea of a Seinfeld reunion.