Michael Richards, born July 24, 1949, in Culver City, California, is an American actor, comedian, and writer best known for his role as Cosmo Kramer on the iconic television sitcom "Seinfeld." Richards grew up in a middle-class family and discovered his love for performing at an early age. After graduating from Thousand Oaks High School, he attended the California Institute of the Arts and later earned a degree in drama from Evergreen State College in Washington.

Richards began his career in comedy in the early 1970s, performing in various improv and comedy clubs. He gained national attention as a regular on the sketch comedy show "Fridays," which aired from 1980 to 1982. His work on "Fridays" showcased his talent for physical comedy and set the stage for his later success.

In 1989, Richards landed the role that would define his career: Cosmo Kramer on NBC's "Seinfeld." Created by Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David, the show became a cultural phenomenon, and Richards' portrayal of Kramer, the quirky and eccentric neighbor, was a standout. His physical comedy, unique mannerisms, and impeccable timing earned him three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.

After "Seinfeld" ended in 1998, Richards struggled to find a role that matched his success as Kramer. He starred in the short-lived sitcom "The Michael Richards Show" in 2000, but it was canceled after only a few episodes due to poor ratings and reviews.

In 2006, Richards faced significant controversy when he used racial slurs during a stand-up comedy routine at the Laugh Factory in Los Angeles. The incident was widely publicized and led to a major backlash, damaging his reputation and career. Richards publicly apologized, expressing deep remorse for his actions.

Following the incident, Richards stepped away from the public eye, focusing on personal growth and reflection. He made a few sporadic appearances, including a cameo in Jerry Seinfeld's show "Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee" in 2012, where he addressed the controversy and his subsequent retreat from the spotlight.

Richards' personal life has been relatively private. He was married to Cathleen Lyons from 1974 to 1993, and they have one daughter, Sophia. In 2010, he married Beth Skipp, and the couple resides in Southern California.