Richard Belzer, who was best known for portraying Law & Order: SVU’s cynical Detective John Munch, has died.
The actor passed away at his house in Bozouls, southwest France, at the age of 78, according to Bill Scheft, a former writer for The Late Show with David Letterman.
In a letter to The Hollywood Reporter, the former late-night writer initially revealed the news and explained that he has experienced “plenty of health concerns.”
His last words were “[Expletive] you, mother [expletive],” a longtime friend of the SVU actor told the publication.
Richard leaves behind his 74-year-old wife Harlee McBride, whom he wed in 1985. He is also survived by his two stepdaughters, Jessica and Shannon, from his wife’s previous marriage, despite the fact that he never had any of his own.
The late television actor, who was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut in 1944, had his screen debut in the comedy The Groove Tube in 1974, which also served as Chevy Chase’s feature film debut.
He continued to be a mainstay of the New York City comedy scene throughout the 1970s and 1980s, sharing the stage with many other greats, including Bill Murray, Gilda Radner, and the late John Belushi.
Richard was selected by seasoned producer Lorne Michaels to perform as the opening act for the live audience of the renowned sketch program when it first debuted in 1975.
He made his television debut as Detective Munch in the premiere of NBC’s Homicide, and he last appeared in an episode of Law & Order: SVU in 2016. He was a cast member of the show from 1999 until 2016.
His longtime co-star Mariska Hargitay paid a touching tribute to him on Instagram, writing: “My dear, dear buddy, farewell. You, your special brilliance, and your singular perspective on this odd world will be missed. I consider myself fortunate to have known, loved, and collaborated with you for such a long time. The angels are so fortunate to have you. Already, I can hear them giggling. You have my undying affection, both now and forever.”
