Michael Anthony Richards (born July 24, 1949) is an American actor, writer, television producer and comedian. He began his career as a stand-up comedian, first entering the national spotlight when he was featured on Billy Crystal's first cable TV special. He went on to become a series regular on ABC's "Fridays". He made numerous guest appearances on a variety of television shows, such as "Cheers". His film credits include "So I Married an Axe Murderer", "Airheads", "Young Doctors in Love", "Problem Child", "Coneheads", "UHF", and "Trial and Error", one of his few starring roles.