Richard Moll, the beloved actor known for his role on the hit show Night Court, has died at the age of 80. Moll’s representative confirmed the sad news that the actor passed away peacefully in his home in Big Bear Lake, California.
Born on January 13, 1943, in Pasadena, California, Moll was the youngest of three siblings. After earning a degree in History from the University of California, Berkeley, he pursued his passion for acting, even though his towering height initially limited the availability of roles.
However, Moll’s distinctive deep voice and towering 6’8 frame eventually propelled him into the spotlight. He became a household name for his portrayal of Bull Shannon, the lovable and gentle bailiff on Night Court, a popular NBC sitcom that ran from 1984 to 1992.
Moll’s character, Bull Shannon, with his iconic shaved head, quickly won the hearts of fans with his catchphrase, Ooo-kay, which he would say whenever he realized he had made a mistake. His portrayal of Bull Shannon earned him an Emmy nomination and solidified his place in television history.
Outside of Night Court, Moll showcased his versatility as an actor. He earned a Saturn award nomination for his performance in the horror movie House and lent his voice to animated characters in various TV shows.
In 1999, Moll played against type in the satirical romcom But I’m a Cheerleader, portraying a gay man who guided teenagers to a re-education camp. Moll was unafraid to tackle challenging roles and bring depth to his characters.
Throughout his career, Moll made appearances in various television shows and his talent and dedication to his craft shone through in every role he took on.
Richard Moll is survived by his children Chloe and Mason Moll, his ex-wife Susan Moll, and his stepchildren Cassandra Card and Morgan Ostling. His legacy as a talented actor and beloved personality will be forever remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
