Richard Jeni (1957–2007) was an American stand-up comedian and actor. He was known for his sharp observational humor, energetic stage presence, and witty commentary on various aspects of life.

• Early Life: Richard John Colangelo, known professionally as Richard Jeni, was born on April 14, 1957, in Brooklyn, New York.
• Stand-Up Comedy Career: Jeni gained popularity in the comedy scene during the 1980s and 1990s. His comedic style often involved rapid-fire delivery, clever wordplay, and humorous reflections on everyday situations.
• HBO Specials: Jeni had several successful HBO comedy specials, including “Richard Jeni: Platypus Man” (1987) and “Richard Jeni: Crazy from the Heat” (1991). These specials helped solidify his reputation as a talented stand-up comedian.
• Television Appearances: In addition to his stand-up career, Jeni made appearances on various television shows, including “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” and “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” He also had acting roles in TV series such as “The Mask” and “Everybody Hates Chris.”
• Platypus Man: “Platypus Man” was a short-lived sitcom starring Jeni that aired in 1995. The show was based on his comedy and focused on his character navigating life’s challenges.
• Film Roles: Jeni appeared in films such as “The Mask” (1994) and “National Lampoon’s Dad’s Week Off” (1997).
• Personal Struggles: Despite his success in comedy, Jeni faced personal challenges, including struggles with depression. Tragically, he passed away on March 10, 2007, at the age of 49, in an apparent suicide.