Richard Moll Passes Away at 80: Remembering the Iconic Bailiff of ‘Night Court’
Richard Moll Passes Away
Richard Moll, a beloved character and voice actor, renowned for his unforgettable role as the bailiff on the original version of NBC’s “Night Court,” has passed away at the age of 80. He left a lasting mark on the world of entertainment, and his legacy continues to shine.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Born | January 13, 1943 |
| Died | October 26, 2023 |
| Cause of Death | Natural Causes |
| Spouses | Susan Brown (1993–2005), Laura Class (1988–1992) |
| Age | 80 |
A Life Well-Lived
Richard Moll’s journey began in Pasadena, California, where he was born. He furthered his education at the University of California, Berkeley, setting the stage for a remarkable career in show business. When he ventured into acting, his initial roles included commercials and bit parts on various television shows.
Notably, he graced the screens of “Welcome Back, Kotter” and “The Rockford Files,” where he portrayed a character simply known as “Big Thug.” Standing tall at 6’8″, Moll possessed a commanding presence that left a lasting impression on audiences.
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“Bull Shannon” and “Night Court”
However, it was his portrayal of “Bull Shannon” in the classic series “Night Court” that etched Richard Moll’s name in the annals of television history. Running for an impressive nine seasons from 1984 to 1992, the show offered a unique blend of comedy and charm, with Moll’s character being a bald, big-hearted, and occasionally dense bailiff.
His endearing portrayal added a touch of magic to each episode, making him an essential part of the show’s success. In 2022, the network revived “Night Court,” but Moll did not make an appearance in this new iteration.
Following the conclusion of “Night Court,” Richard Moll continued to make his mark in the entertainment world. He ventured into movies, gracing productions like “Jingle All the Way” and “Scary Movie 2.” Television also welcomed his talents, with roles in series such as “Smallville” and “Spider-Man: The Animated Series.”
Yet, it was in the realm of voice acting that Moll found significant recognition. He lent his voice to iconic characters like Two-Face in “Batman: The Animated Series” and “Batman: The Brave and the Bold.” His voice also echoed in various video games, contributing to their immersive experiences.
A Comedic Heart with a Serious Side
While Richard Moll’s comedic prowess gained him considerable attention, he never wished to limit himself to similar roles. In a 1988 interview with the Tampa Bay Times, he expressed his desire to return to playing villainous characters. His love for portraying “bad guys” and relishing the fun they brought to his acting journey was undeniable.
Beyond the entertainment world, Moll had a compassionate side. In 1989, he testified before the House Select Committee on Aging, advocating for increased funding for Alzheimer’s Disease research. This cause was personal to him as his father battled the disease.
In his retirement, Richard Moll found solace in the serene San Bernardino mountain community of Big Bear Lake, indulging his love for the outdoors. He leaves behind his former wife, two children, and two stepchildren.
As we remember the remarkable career of Richard Moll, his contributions to the world of entertainment and his unwavering dedication to making people smile will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
