Richard Belzer, comedian and TV detective, dies at 78

Richard Belzer, longtime stand-up comedian and TV detective, has died. He was 78 years old. He played the role of Detective in Law & Order: SVU and Homicide: Life on the Street.

Richard Belzer died on Sunday at his home in Bojoles, southern France. This information was told by his longtime friend Bill Schaft to The Hollywood Reporter.

Richard Belzer is an American actor and comedian known for his iconic portrayal of Detective John Munch in the NBC police procedural drama series “Homicide: Life on the Street” and later on in “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” Here are 10 points on Richard Belzer:

Richard Belzer was born on August 4, 1944, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, USA. He started his career as a stand-up comedian in the late 1960s and later appeared on several TV shows and films, including “The Groove Tube” and “Scarface.” Belzer’s breakout role came in 1993 when he was cast as Detective John Munch in “Homicide: Life on the Street,” a role he would play for seven seasons.

Belzer is the only actor to portray the same character, John Munch, in 10 different television series. Belzer has also been involved in various philanthropic activities and has raised funds for organizations like PETA and the Red Cross.

Belzer is known for his deadpan delivery and cynical sense of humor, which he often incorporates into his acting roles. In addition to his acting and comedy work, Belzer has also had a successful career as a radio host, with his show “The Belzer Connection” airing on SiriusXM.

Belzer has been married twice, first to Gail Susan Ross in 1966, and then to Harlee McBride in 1985, with whom he remains married. In 2016, Belzer announced his retirement from acting, but he continues to remain active in various other projects, including writing and radio work.