Richard Pryor — Timeline
Key moments in the life of Richard Pryor.
1940
Born Richard Franklin Lennox Thomas Pryor Jr. on December 1 in Peoria, Illinois
1960
Began performing in clubs and made his first recordings, initially influenced by Redd Foxx and other comedians
1968
Appeared on the television show 'Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In,' gaining national exposure
1971
Released the album 'Craps (After Hours),' marking the beginning of his most creative period as a recording artist
1974
Won his first Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album for 'That Nigger's Crazy'
1978
Suffered severe burns in a cocaine-related accident on June 9; survived and continued his career
1982
Released the concert film 'Richard Pryor: Live on the Sunset Strip,' considered one of his greatest performances
1986
Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis; continued performing and acting despite the diagnosis
1998
Received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his profound impact on comedy
2005
Died on December 10 in Los Angeles, California, at age 65