NEW YORK (AP) Richard Riehle, a highly regarded character actor known for his extensive work in both television and film, passed away at the age of 78. His death was announced by Wright Entertainment Inc. on Monday, revealing that he had died on October 15, though no specific cause of death was disclosed. According to a statement from the company, “Our industry has lost an exceptional talent, and our community has lost a truly wonderful man.”
Riehle's nearly five-decade-long career showcased his versatility as he frequently portrayed authority figures while also excelling in comedic roles. One of his most memorable performances came in the cult classic film "Office Space," where he played the character Tom Smykowski, an underappreciated product manager who humorously insists, “I have people skills!” His roles spanned a wide array of genres and formats, including a quartermaster in the Civil War epic "Glory," a prison guard in "The Fugitive," and an air marshal in "Executive Decision." In television, he made an appearance as a police officer on "The West Wing" and played a principal in the TV adaptation of "Ferris Bueller's Day Off."
The AV Club noted in 2017 that if casting directors needed a “burly, blustery, mustachioed” man, Riehle would likely be among the first choices. His journey into acting began serendipitously during his senior year at the University of Notre Dame. Although he could not afford an additional year of study, he was informed that he could complete all required credits in a single semester for speech and drama, prompting him to stay on. Riehle immersed himself in various theater roles, ranging from acting to directing and set building. His talent earned him a teaching assistantship at the University of Minnesota, where he subsequently received a Master of Fine Arts (MFA).
Riehle debuted in cinema with lines in the 1977 film "Joyride," sharing the screen with notable actors such as Desi Arnaz Jr. and Melanie Griffith. He continued to make his mark in the film industry with appearances in the broad comedy "Bridesmaids," Woody Allen’s "Shadows and Fog," and the film "Black Rain" alongside Michael Douglas. Additionally, he was featured in the sitcom "Grounded For Life."
A devoted fan of the "Star Trek" universe, Riehle was fortunate to land roles in three separate "Star Trek" franchises: "Star Trek: The Next Generation" in 1992, "Star Trek: Voyager" in 2000, and "Star Trek: Enterprise" in 2004. His theater career also included three Broadway appearances, participating in a 1999 revival of "The Iceman Cometh" alongside actor Paul Giamatti.
Throughout his illustrious career, he was not only celebrated for his impressive talent but also for his character off the screen. Wright Entertainment noted that Riehle would be remembered for his “genuine goodness, boundless kindness, and unwavering generosity,” particularly towards aspiring actors and filmmakers, emphasizing his commitment to encourage and support the next generation of talent.
