Richard Franklyn Pryor, an American stand-up comedian, actor, and social critic, passed away on December 10, 2005, at the age of 65. Born in Peoria, Illinois on December 1, 1940, Pryor rose to fame in the 1960s and '70s as a stand-up comic, starring in a wide range of films, television specials, recordings, and live performances. During his career, he earned 5 Grammy Awards and was nominated for an Emmy and Golden Globe. He was credited with bringing African-American topics and experience to the forefront of comedy, and was recognized for his willingness to confront off-color topics. Pryor gained notoriety for his trademark "take no prisoners" approach to comedy and received praise for his honest and frank approach to a variety of social issues. His many film and television appearances included starring roles in Brewster's Millions (1985) and Blue Collar (1978). He was also well-known for his memorable supporting roles in the films Superman III (1983) and Stir Crazy (1980). Pryor is survived by his children, Rain, Elizabeth, Stephen, Franklyn, and Kelsey; and his three grandchildren, Quincy, Mason, and Chance.