Richard Belzer, best known for his role as Detective John Munch on the “Law & Order” franchise, has died at the age of 78. On Sunday, Bill Scheft, a longtime family friend, confirmed the news.
Belzer died in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, in the south of France, surrounded by family, according to Scheft.
Belzer, a popular stand-up comedian, made his acting debut in the 1974 film “The Groove Tube.” He was also featured in early “Saturday Night Live” episodes.
However, Belzer’s most memorable role was as Detective John Munch on “Homicide: Life on the Street” from 1993 to 1999. Belzer reprised the role on “Law & Order,” debuting in the show’s first episode in 1993.
“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” premiered in 1999 and lasted until 2016 — a total of 326 episodes, according to IMDb.
Belzer cut an imposing but approachable figure in his sharp, dark suits and glasses, making the often cynical but committed detective a TV icon. He won the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Scene Stealing Star in 2008.
“I loved this guy so much,” comedian and SNL original cast member Laraine Newman wrote on Twitter. “One of the funniest people I’ve ever met.”
I'm so sad to hear of Richard Belzer's passing. I loved this guy so much. He was one of my first friends when I got to New York to do SNL. We used to go out to dinner every week at Sheepshead Bay for lobster. One of the funniest people ever. A master at crowd work. RIP dearest. pic.twitter.com/u23co0JPA2
— Laraine Newman (@larainenewman) February 19, 2023
To honor Belzer, actor, and comedian Henry Winkler quoted Newman on Twitter. “Rest in peace, Richard,” wrote Winkler.
Rest in peace Richard https://t.co/recgtMi62J
— Henry Winkler (@hwinkler4real) February 19, 2023
Mariska Hargitay, Belzer’s former SVU co-star, wrote on Instagram, “Goodbye, my dear friend. I’ll miss you, your distinct light, and your unique perspective on this strange world.”
“The angels are extremely fortunate to have you. I can already hear them laughing “The actress went on to say.
Wolf Entertainment, Dick Wolf’s production company that produced the entire “Law & Order” franchise, also issued a statement from Wolf himself.
“One of television’s most iconic characters is Richard Belzer’s Detective John Munch,” wrote Wolf.
— Wolf Entertainment (@WolfEnt) February 19, 2023
“Richard brought humor and joy into all of our lives; he was the consummate professional, and we will all miss him tremendously,” Wolf added.
Belzer’s other film credits include “Santorini Blue,” “Scarface,” and “Man on the Moon,” a biographical film about the late comedian Andy Kaufman.
His wife, actress Harlee McBride, and stepdaughters Jessica and Bree survive him.
