'Law And Order: SVU' And 'Homicide: Life On The Street' Star Richard Belzer Dies At 78

TV & Film

Feb 20

Actor and comedian, Richard Belzer passed away at his home in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, France on February 19th, 2023. The funny man had to give us one final laugh with what may be the most legendary last words of all time, “F*ck you, m*ther f*cker.”

A rebel at his core, it was ironic that Belzer was most frequently cast as a member of law enforcement. His most famous role was John Munch in the Law & Order franchise, which began on Homicide: Life on the Street. The character would appear in a crossover with the Law & Order mothership, leading to his reprising the role in Special Victims Unit. The character then appeared in series such as The X-Files, The Wire, Arrested Development, 30 Rock, The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, and American Dad. This made him a focal point of a television universe theory tying back to St. Elsewhere. Overall, the Munch character appeared in over 360 episodes of television.

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New Yorkers will know Belzer’s candid and unapologetic comedy from WNBC Radio. He also went nationwide regularly during his frequent guest slots on National Lampoons Radio. Richard Belzer was never afraid of a challenge, whether it was through laughter or exploration of ideas. A prolific author, he published works examining set narratives on many events in American history, one of which hit the New York Times Best Seller List.

Belzer famously lost consciousness after being on the receiving end of Hulk Hogan’s signature chin-lock. The incident would become the subject of one of his most popular stand-up tours. Having started his television career as the warm-up guy for Saturday Night Live, comedy was always his home. Belzer could never resist stand-up whenever the opportunity arose.

Richard Belzer is survived by his wife Harlee and two stepdaughters. He will be sorely missed.

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