Member Reviews
Getting to spend time with the real Kramer was a wonderful experience. Learning Richards' trials and tribulations in his own voice was a pleasure.
Michael Richard's memoir details his early start, his career trajectory, and how he brings to life the eccentric Kramer on the sitcom Seinfeld. A foreword by Jerry reveals how much that one part took over his life and everything that brought him to that point.
Very interesting listen. I really enjoyed learning more about the man behind the beloved Kramer character.
Thanks to Michael Richards and NetGalley for the ARC/audiobook. I am not a fan of Seinfeld - not that I actively dislike the show, but that I have somehow, to everyone's surprise (trust me on this), completed missed the boat on the show. My older siblings would watch it - my eldest brother quite often - but I never managed to get immersed into more than an episode here or there. To that end, I was very interested in Michael's stories. I particularly loved his view of his upbringing and his first visit to NYC. As an introvert myself, I could identify with some of what Michael discussed in his stories. The bulk of the book that detailed Seinfeld was ALL news to me (lol), but I really enjoyed the inside scoop. With that said, I could have done without the pseudo-philosophical waxing on - it actually felt inauthentic and quite out of place. I admit that I might not be the target audience for this book, but I still found some enjoyable areas. Thank you for the ARC!
#EntrancesandExits #NetGalley
A great look at Richards, at how he built a career to be more than Kramer. A fun read, especially for readers who grew up with Richards.
So happy I received the audio ARC of “Entrances & Exits,” as it was narrated by Michael Richards himself - giving an added dimension to his story.
If you are a fan of Seinfeld, I highly recommend giving this a listen. Richards’ life is fascinating & sad, happy & blessed. He shared many stories & personal antidotes - many of which have never been made public. His journey to being cast on Seinfeld will make you both cry & laugh out loud. While he’s a successful actor who has spent several decades in the public eye, it was Richards’ personal stories that were the most meaningful to hear.
A wonderful biography to pick up!
I hate not giving a memoir 5 stars. I really really do. A memoir is just your life blood written on pages. The courage to write a memoir gets an automatic 5 stars. But as for the book itself: 3.5.
So many great parts to this book. Some sad parts as well, particularly Richards’ desire to know his father and his resulting conclusion. Very sad how he internalized that. But of course the highlights were what everyone really picked the book up for: info on his time on Seinfeld. And that did NOT disappoint. So funny, especially as we have recently rewatched the show. I was also interested in hearing how he would handle the situation that I would say ended his career…the stand-up routine. While he did handle it well, he wrote about it in much the same way that is my biggest complaint about the rest of the book. He was very existential in his writing and not very emotional. It didn’t feel like he wrote much past the surface, although he did write a lot of philosophical tales that maybe was his way of going deep.
That left me wanting and left parts of it kind of boring.
Richards was brilliant as 'Kramer' and the biggest surprise in this book is that he said no to 'Monk' - a character and TV show created with HIM in mind and FOR him, by a major network, a 45-minute primetime slot, that would surely expand him beyond sitcom-universe and onto primetime-verse. He rejected it for superfluous reasons - burn out after Seinfeld, wanting to explore the world (most probably he thought offers wouldn't dry up and they'd still be there when he returned from his travels - they weren't and he made a mess of everything by even alienating a major creative talent management agency in doing so). He threw it all away, only to later do a cheap sitcom version of Monk (damp squib 'The Kramer Show') burning all kinds of bridges by doing so. That was the saddest thing to hear. I don't think that unfortunate outburst cancelled him as much as the way he handled his career post-Seinfeld did. And that is sad. He doesn't spell it out, but it's obvious he was driven by ego than reason and had zero good advise.
Of course, another big revelation is that during the entire Seinfeld run, Richards didn't have an agent for ad and sponsorship deals - he was managing it himself.
There's a lesson in here for everyone who is starting out or is a one-hit wonder - to not rest on your laurels - keep working - that's what standard 'working actors' who work from one show to the other, not taking anything for granted, building on the goodwill (look at all the people who've jumped from one gig to another in the last 40 years in sitcoms and primetime, books and speaking engagements and back to sitcoms and primetime) - they hire agencies, agencies find business for them and they do it - especially in the way that number of 'talent' and nature of work done by agencies like CAA, WME has evolved. - they are managing everyone from directors, writers, actors, singers, to Kardashian-lke celebrities to sports stars to handling marketing for big business - and cleverly merge everything together to sell something and anything - and decide with media who gets promoted on morning shows and late night talk shows - hell, they probably are representing the newspeople and talkshow hosts and producers of these shows and entire media houses themselves!!!.So how can anyone not see the benefit of playing the game by staying in the game? But maybe Richards thought he was Seinfeld? (a guy who struck gold, literally didn't want to work forever, and didn't, because he had the money to not do anything, had the goodwill to not do anything, and zero ambition and drive after Seinfeld to do anything).
Richards' voice is instantly recognizable as that of Kramer's and he voices his book in a similar tone, which in the beginning was jarring to me because I thought I'd be hearing the 'real voice' and not a part he was playing, but listeners will get used to it after a while.
Part of this book is meant for the Seinfeld and Kramer fans (around the world), hence the retelling of what famous episodes were like to shoot, most likely okayed and approved by the publisher's legal team beforehand, so you won't find anything negative or critical of anyone - and for creative people who read and perform lines for a living to not have egos and pretenses, that's a big claim. You can see him giving his best to the show, but you don't get to hear what the table room reads were like or what the writers envisioned for him. The small tidbit that it was Richards who bought all the clothes that Kramer wore and he had a particular style in mind is a revelation - because usually costume departments and stylists decide on the look - it shows his effort and ingenuity. Part of Seinfeld's popularity internationally (and also with younger people) was because of Kramer's character (and not anyone else) and his physical / slap stick brand of Kramer - you won't find out who came up with that, but you'll hear about all the padding he had to survive the bumps and falls. This book will make you rewatch a few episodes for sure.
He meanders on about his spiritual journey (which he says he'll explore in detail in another book). He comes across as extremely private, difficult and/or free-spirited and boring - an ordinary person who has been unable to exploit the gifted soul beyond one sitcom. And that's a tragedy because he needs to be out there performing, whether on TV or film. That world misses him. Fans of Kramer miss him.
It was painful to see him on the promotional tour where every 'holier-tan-thou' host asked him about the unfortunate outburst he made on stage probably decades ago, when this guy's work is much more of a nostalgia about good old days and fun people had watching Kramer and his spiritual life than anything else, and he should be seen on TV in something new. It's about time.
As for personal stuff, you get a few snippets but he does not mention his mother and grandmother's deaths, or the life he has had with his daughter after she's grown up, etc. A huge shocker in the book is his assertion that he was never unfaithful for the lifespan of 15 years of his 1st marriage. His current house / lodgings sounds like a lovely place.
This book is targeted for fans of Seinfeld and Kramer and they will like what's in it.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC and all the best to Mr. Richards, whether he recognizes the goodwill and good advise or not.
As I was growing up I have memories of my parents watching Seinfeld reruns all the time so Kramer is a friendly face. Honestly, until I saw this book I didn’t even know who played Kramer, but I’m so glad I took the time to read this and learn who Michael Richards really is. I listened to the audiobook and was hooked as soon as I heard the familiar voice of Michael Richards himself. This book was so much more than I expected and whole Seinfeld plays a huge role in Michael’s life and in this book, there is so much more to be discovered within these pages. I loved this book from start to finished and enjoyed all of the different stories about his life. Hearing about how he grew up sets the whole tone for what is to follow and it makes certain things make so much sense. I could go on and on and praise different parts of this book, but I think to fully appreciate it you need to read it yourself. I will say that I enjoyed the different antidotes in this book and thought the way Michael interspersed things he had learned and his spiritualism into this story kept it interesting. If you are a Seinfeld fan or just someone looking to learn more about the interesting man that is Michael Richards then give this book a read. I really enjoyed this book and am glad I came across it.
Thanks, Recorded Books, for an advanced audiobook review copy via NetGalley.
While the parts about "Seinfeld" were interesting (as was Jerry Seinfeld's forward), the rest of the memoir didn't hold my interest. Richards' performance was top-notch, and it was fun hearing his unique tone and delivery.
AMAZING Book. But I do love Kramer in Seinfeld.. My husband got me into Seinfeld and I'm now a fan.
This book did not disappoint. We go the audiobook and as soon as I played it in the car my husband gave a huge smile! Firstly, Jerry Seinfeld's foreword is lovely and really shows how much he cares about his friend.
Once the book begins, Hearing Michael's story in his own words and voice was great. The whole book is in a chronological timeline of his career, which is perfect and takes you on a journey through his success.
Definitely recommend reading and also hearing the audio as it's always nice to hear the actual person tell their own story!
Entrances and Exits is not Bossypants. It's also not a compendium of the TV show Seinfeld. Yes, parts are funny. And, it would be impossible for Michael Richards to write his memoir and not mention Cosmo Kramer, considered to be one of the greatest TV characters of all time. What was unexpected is how deeply philosophical Michael Richards is, how extremely spiritual. So much, in fact, that an entire appendix of philosophical/spiritual musings was removed from the original draft with hopes to be published one day as its own work. I sincerely support these efforts.
As a true introvert (to the point of being anthropophobic), I am inherently skeptical of anyone who publicly claims to be introvert. Facebook and Instagram are chock-full of memes posted by extroverts disillusioned into believing themselves to be introverts. Michael Richards has done the near-impossible: he has convinced me that he really is introverted. That was another aspect of Entrances and Exits that I found so enjoyable, the feeling of being seen. Michael Richards is another true introvert. When he needs to be on, he can be splendidly on. When he needs to be alone, in nature, with a dog, with a book, with himself and the holy-holy...
Once again I have picked up an (auto)biography with no expectations and been stuck deeply by a feeling of connection to the subject matter. Listening to Michael Richards's own voice relaying these words was even better. The inflections in his voice added nuance to the text, allowing you to more deeply appreciate certain sections. Recording an audiobook is no easy task. I commend Michael Richards for choosing to tell his own tale. The listening reader is the better for it.
Entrances and Exits will remain with me. It is beautiful. Thank you, Michael. I appreciate you. I would like to thank RB Media | Recorded Books for allowing me to experience this NetGalley audiobook. Five stars.
I loved listening to this book!! You can hear the expressions on his face just by listening. Some stories were a little long winded. The bike race story was way too long. But the narration kept me enthralled.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.
In the audiobook “Entrances and Exits,” Michael Richards—best known for his iconic portrayal of Kramer on “Seinfeld”—invites listeners into the labyrinth of his life. Narrated by Richards himself, this memoir takes us beyond the studio lights and into the raw, unscripted moments that shaped him.
🎙️ Richards shares the journey of becoming Kramer, the quirky neighbor who danced through Jerry’s apartment door.
This isn’t just about sitcom fame. It’s about the irrational spirit that guided him—the pratfalls, the unexpected turns, the chaos that defines comedy.
Richards’s narration adds depth. His gravelly timbre carries the weight of vulnerability and triumph.
Jerry Seinfeld’s foreword sets the stage, reminding us of the show’s cultural impact.
From slapstick to soul-searching, Richards bares it all.
🎧 This audiobook is about the thresholds we cross, the laughter that echoes, and the chaos that shapes us. A backstage pass to a comedic genius legendary life awaits.
Michael Richards’ narrates his memoir so beautifully and graciously. Although he states he is not a writer, he has penned a brilliant tribute to his fascinating life, including his very personal difficulties and conflicts. Readers get a good look into Richards’ early life and later work, as well as his relationships with academic literature, faith, and family. Voila! He started out just like us driving school buses, and struggling to build life.
I used the word graciously previously, which brings to mind how Richard’s constantly dropped names of fellow comediennes… Red Skelton, Robin Williams, Kirstie Alley, Marty Feldman to name a few. He speaks of his great respect for their talents.
Also very talented, Jerry Seinfeld begins the whole process with a touching and aptly written foreword.
Now, get ready to travel with Michael though an enthralling early history of Richards’ school abandonment, hitchhiking through much of the US, and then a fascinating description of being drafted in the Army in the scary era of Cold War Germany. And guess what? In the army, he eventually ends up running the army actors guild. After service, Richards describes his academic training for acting in California. Ponder his deep reflections on early exposure to scripture and his complex relationship to faith.
Then Richards’ first break comes, in the 1980s as he meets Larry David. Stay with him as he survives the grueling process of the unpredictable standup/improv world.
My husband’s second language is Seinfeld so I thoroughly enjoyed the smattering of Seinfeld jokes and hilarious and so familiar references throughout the book.
My favorite part of his life story is how he made Kramer and worked out exactly who Kramer would be… his dress, voice, hair, mannerisms, etc. Richards even wore a body suit to protect himself from his slapstick antics that we laughed so hard over. He also addresses his initial worries of being written out of the show. Who would have thought?
As the book winds down, Richards describes his role on the short and ill-fated Michael Richards Show, and his subsequent travels to the Middle East as he tries to figure out who he is to be post-Seinfeld. Then the joyous reunion is happens where he reunites with Cosmos Kramer.
My thanks to one of the most talented individuals to grace the televised airways for sharing his life with us; the good, the bad and the ugly.
Great memoir to hear being read by the author. Highly recommend audiobook.
Thank you to NetGalley aan the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Entrances and Exits by Michael Richards (foreword by Jerry Seinfeld) and narrated by Michael Richards is an interesting insight into the comedian behind the iconic character Kramer from the hit show Seinfeld. Let me preface this by saying I have never watched Seinfeld outside of the group hug meme and clips of Kramer's reactions and as such, I am more interested in the person behind the character.
It's not that I have not had interest inb watching Seinfeld, I have just never had the opportunity. After listening to this fascinating audiobook however, I am intrigued to watch and see how this incredible mind and quick humour translates to the screen. Understanding the creative processes behind the production adds an extra dynamic to the watch and as such, I am looking forward to trying it out!
Thank you to NetGalley, RB Media | Recorded Books and Michael Richards for this ALC. My review is left vountarily and all opinionsa re my own
Michael Richards’ Entrances and Exits is a brilliant tribute to a fascinating life, and a complex and conflicted man. The book is understandably largely told through the lens of Seinfeld (perhaps the most successful television series of all time, and the centerpiece of Richards’ career) but also explores Richards’ early life and later work, as well as his relationships with academic literature, faith, and family.
After a touching and beautifully written foreword by Jerry Seinfeld himself, we are treated to an enthralling early history of Richards’ school abandonment, hitchhiking through much of the US, and then a fascinating description of drafting in the Army and his time in Cold War Germany, eventually running the army actors guild. After service, Richards describes his deeply philosophical academic training in acting in California, including reflections on early exposure to scripture and his complex relationship to faith. The story then goes on to Richards’ “first break” on the 1980s TV show Fridays (where he met Larry David), and the early process of cutting his teeth in the standup/improv world. The smattering of Seinfeld jokes and references throughout are hilarious, and the writing excellent.
There are some deeply personal, emotional and jarring descriptions in the text: his mother’s disclosure of her relationship with Richards’ absent father, and the deep psychological worry of finding his feet on Seinfeld, and working out exactly who Kramer is – his identity and Richards’ would turn out to be, for better or worse, entwined for the rest of his life. He also addresses the initial worries of being written out of the show.
At the conclusion of Seinfeld, Richards describes his role on the short and ill-fated Michael Richards Show, and his subsequent travels in the Middle East as he tries to define his place in the world post-Seinfeld. Of course, the story would not be complete without mention of the disastrous Laugh Factory incident. My impression, though I acknowledge thoughts and feelings will undoubtedly vary, was of a person deeply embarrassed and regretful of his behavior. The years away from the spotlight was a means of working towards redemption, something which I think he has achieved.
Overall, this is a brilliant book – a marvelous ode to the man that gave us one of the most entertaining characters to ever grace television, but also a fitting tribute to the complexities and contradictions of the very human man behind him. 5/5 stars. My thanks to RB Media and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As a huge Kramer fan, I immediately requested this audiobook. I was so insanely thrilled to receive it, so thank you so much to NetGalley, Michael Richards, and RB Media for the copy of this audiobook to listen to and review!
This audiobook surpassed all my hope and dreams. Listening to Michael Richards was so insanely captivating. His stories were enthralling, and half the time I couldn’t even believe they were real life. I felt like I was sitting in a room with him while he recounted everything extraordinary that ever happened in his life.
An absolute 5 star listen. Thank you thank you thank you for the opportunity to listen and review!
Richards seems intent on convincing his readers that he’s complicated—philosophical and burning with intellect—but his digressions often slow the memoir down and makes you feel like you're stuck at a dinner with a precocious and verbose grad student studying metaphysics. The Seinfeld sections, of course, are the core of the book and his reflections are engaging and entertaining.