The hit sitcom Seinfeld follows the humorous everyday lives of four friends in New York City. The series is known for its unique and memorable characters, many of whom have become iconic figures of the 90s TV landscape.
While they are beloved as they appeared, showrunner Larry David had alternative ideas for Michael Richards’ character Cosmo Kramer, as he wanted the character to have a ponytail. However, the actor himself ultimately chose not to follow through with this suggestion.
Larry David Wanted Cosmo Kramer to Have a Ponytail in Seinfeld
Starring alongside actors like Jerry Seinfeld, Jason Alexander, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Michael Richards took on the role of the neighbor of the titular character, Cosmo Kramer, in the hit sitcom.
Kramer has since become iconic for his distinctive hairstyle, vintage wardrobe, and offbeat business ideas among other things throughout the show.
The character was heavily inspired by Larry David’s former neighbor and comedian Kenny Kramer. And the creator of the show had initially visualized the character based on his former neighbor, who also wore a ponytail.
In an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, Richards opened up about his casting in the sitcom, as he revealed that David had initially suggested he wear a ponytail to reflect the person his role was inspired by.
When I started out and they were casting, Larry [David] was still close to Kenny Kramer as he visualized the Kramer character, and he suggested I wear a ponytail ‘cause Kenny wore a ponytail.
Although he considered having a fake ponytail initially, he eventually decided to ditch the idea as he found it quite insignificant and rather decided to infuse his own personal touch into the character.
Michael Richards Ditched Ponytail Idea to Personalize Kramer Role
Further into his conversation, Michael Richards shared he refused Larry David’s idea, as he did not want to deal with the hassle of growing or wearing a fake ponytail. “I couldn’t grow it out in time and I didn’t want to wear a fake one,” he said.
The actor humorously entertained the notion of a fake ponytail, suggesting that it falling off amid scenes could lead to a humorous situation in itself. Richards said,
I considered, ‘Hmm, a fake one. It could fall off at times.’ And we see that it’s fake and he’s very concerned about this fake ponytail. But it falls off and he has to stick it in his pocket, and that’s an interesting cover. That could lead to comedy.
After ditching the idea, he decided to give Kramer a more personal touch, focusing on his natural hair and unique style. “I pulled the hair, I put some gunk in there and let that fly,” he said.
After landing the role in 1989, Richards portrayed the character nearly for a decade on Seinfeld, which has since become one of the most memorable and iconic roles of his career.
Seinfeld is available to stream on Netflix.
