Michael Richards' Spiritual Journey After Racist Rant

Actor and comedian Michael Richards, known for his role as Kramer in "Seinfeld," embarked on a spiritual journey following a controversial racist rant in 2006 that led him to step back from Hollywood. In his new memoir, "Entrances and Exits," Richards reveals how he grappled with his anger and found solace in faith.

Michael Richards' life took an unexpected turn in 2006 when he went on a racist rant at a comedy club. The incident, which was caught on camera, sparked public backlash and led to Richards' self-imposed hiatus from Hollywood.

Michael Richards' Spiritual Journey After Racist Rant

During his time away from the spotlight, Richards delved into a period of introspection and self-reflection. He sought solace in spirituality and embarked on a journey of self-discovery.

"I found faith along the way," Richards told Fox News Digital. "Faith in creation and how marvelous this system is set up to — well, it's rather merciful in that it allows us to reflect upon our wrongs and move on to get to a better place in oneself, to improve."

Michael Richards' Spiritual Journey After Racist Rant

Richards' spiritual journey led him to question his own motivations and the nature of human behavior. He became fascinated with the potential for growth and improvement within individuals.

"We as human beings can learn from our mistakes," Richards said. "The state of improvement. I'm fascinated by that."

Michael Richards' Spiritual Journey After Racist Rant

Reflecting on the events that transpired on that fateful night in 2006, Richards admitted that he would have handled the situation differently today. He expressed regret for his actions and acknowledged that he should have left the stage when the atmosphere became hostile.

"I tried in the beginning, but it was all going wrong," Richards recalled. "I'm rather fascinated with just how bad it's getting."

Michael Richards' Spiritual Journey After Racist Rant

Richards also shared that he did not miss Hollywood during his hiatus, but rather felt a sense of loss within himself. He realized that his focus on his public image had overshadowed his own well-being.

"I don't think I was paying enough attention to myself, this person behind Hollywood and the part you play, the quest to entertain a public," Richards explained. "There's something bigger than that, this great person. Who is it?"

Michael Richards' Spiritual Journey After Racist Rant

Richards embarked on a quest for self-understanding, exploring philosophy, religion, and psychology. He spent years contemplating the meaning of his life and his place in the world.

Despite his retirement from stand-up comedy, Richards remains close friends with Jerry Seinfeld, with whom he starred in the iconic sitcom "Seinfeld." Seinfeld has expressed support for Richards' potential return to Hollywood, but Richards declined the offers until he felt he had gained sufficient self-awareness.

Michael Richards' Spiritual Journey After Racist Rant

As he approaches 75, Richards is open to acting roles that resonate with him as an artist. He emphasizes the importance of a connection between the project and his own life experiences, stating that "it's got to activate my life as an artist, so I can really bring it through for everyone to see."