For some actors, creating a timeless character who ends up so universally beloved; so undeniably unique, that no one can imagine another actor in that part, would be a dream realized. For other actors, becoming too connected in the public conscience with said character and having that formidable shadow loom over every future project, could be a frustrating battle with the past and the fans who simply can not let it go. Few television actors – save Carroll O’Connor, Lucille Ball, Henry Winkler, et al – have experienced this type of blessing-turned-curse career arc more than comedian Michael
Made TV debut in Billy Crystal's first cable TV special
1980
Was a regular on the late-night variety series "Fridays" (ABC); also starred Larry David
1982
Made feature debut in Garry Marshall's "Young Doctors in Love"
1989
Played Cosmo Kramer on the hit NBC sitcom, "Seinfeld"; re-teamed with Larry David, who co-created the show with Jerry Seinfeld; earned Emmy (1995) and SAG (1996, 1997, 1998) nominations for Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
