Jerry Seinfeld has spoken publicly about co-star Jerry Stiller for the first time since the latter’s recent death. Stiller, who played Frank Costanza on Seinfeld, passed away from natural causes on May 11th.
Speaking on SiriusXM’s What a Joke with Papa and Fortune, Seinfeld said that Stiller “had the most amazing comedic stuff…we didn’t know if he was planning it or it just came out that way.”
“We never gave Jerry Stiller a note. I never adjusted his performance once. Whatever he did, that’s it. We’re putting that out there.”
“I am such a dedicated believer in if it’s funny, don’t touch it,” Seinfeld continued, “I don’t care why it’s funny. I don’t care what the line was supposed to be. He said it that way, we’re doing it that way.”
An Emmy nominee, Stiller is remembered for his portrayal of eccentric, comedic characters. Along with his work on Seinfeld, Stiller played Arthur Spooner on the long-running sitcom, The King of Queens.
Kevin James, who starred with Stiller on The King of Queens, remembered the late actor fondly on social media earlier this week.
James called Stiller “one of the most kind, loving, and funny people to ever grace this earth.”
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“Thank you for so many incredible memories. I love you and miss you,” he continued.
Stiller also appeared on film, in hits such as Zoolander, Hairspray and Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy.
Earlier in his career, Stiller performed alongside his wife, Anne Meara, as part of the double act, Stiller & Meara. Stiller & Meara were married for over 60 years, until her death in 2015.
Jerry Stiller’s son, comedy legend Ben Stiller, expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of sympathy shown by Stiller’s fans and friends.
“Thanks so much for the incredible outpouring of love and appreciation for Jerry. I know how much it would mean to him,” Stiller tweeted earlier in the week.
Check out some of Jerry Stiller’s best moments from Seinfeld:
