Richard Lewis made legal moves to ensure wife could remain in their home following his death aged 76

Richard Lewis made legal moves so his wife could remain in their home following his death, according to the New York Post.

Back in April last year, the comedian revealed he would be retiring after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

As well as being known for sitcom Curb Your Enthusiasm, Lewis was known for his incredible roles in Robin Hood: Men in Tights and Anything But Love.

Lewis tragically lost his life earlier this week at the age of 76.

His passing was confirmed to UNILAD by his publicist Jeff Abraham on Wednesday (28 February).

HBO

Abraham told UNILAD: "Comedian/actor Richard Lewis passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles last night after suffering a heart attack. He was 76 years old.

"In April of 2023, Richard revealed that he had been living with Parkinson's disease.

"Richard can currently be seen co-starring in the final season of HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm.

"His wife, Joyce Lapinsky, thanks everyone for all the love, friendship and support and asks for privacy at this time."

Many flocked to social media to pay their respects to the comedian - ultimately showing how loved he was by the general public.

"Richard Lewis and Larry's friendship was always one of the best parts of Curb. RIP," one X user said.

"Richard Lewis forever. Rest in peace to a comedy icon," another added.

A third commented: "R.I.P. Richard Lewis. One of the funniest guys around, a true comedy lifer. Seeing him go from hard-working Comedy Central fixture to beloved presence on Curb Your Enthusiasm was beautiful, and I'm glad he got to appreciate it."

Lewis made a series of legal moves with his real estate portfolio before his passing, even turning the home's standard mortgage to an assignment of rents trust deed, as per records reviewed by the New York Post.

Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

The outlet explained how a traditional mortgage operates with the property serving as collateral in the transaction.

Meanwhile, the assignment of rents trust deed revolves around how much money could be made by renting the property.

So, if the borrowers defaults on payments, the lending party is able to obtain rent from the people moving in, subsequently erasing any debts attached to the property.

Essentially, this means that Lewis' wife, Joyce Lapinsky, can still live in their Los Angeles home following his passing.

Property records indicate the pair bought a 2,200-square foot Hollywood Hills house for $1.53 million in 2016.

The house comprises of three bedrooms and three bathrooms.

The mortgage was previously due for repayment in 2046, but following Lewis' legal moves this has been extended to 2053, meaning more manageable monthly payments for Joyce.