Richard Belzer Net Worth 2023 – Bio, Career, stand-up comic and TV detective

Richard Belzer, a well-known American actor, comedian, and author, has passed away at the age of 78 in his home in the south of France after an illness. Richard Belzer began his career as a stand-up comedian and transitioned into acting. He was best known for his role as Detective John Munch on the TV show “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” Richard Belzer was a well-known conspiracy theorist and wrote several books on the subject. At the time of his death, his net worth was estimated to be around $16 million. In this article, we will discuss Richard Belzer’s life, career, and net worth.

Who was Richard Belzer?

Richard Jay Belzer was born on August 4, 1944, in Bridgeport, Connecticut. He attended Dean College in Franklin, Massachusetts, before moving to Northeastern University in Boston to study journalism. He was an American actor, comedian, and author who began his career as a stand-up comedian and later transitioned into acting.

Richard Belzer’s Career

After his first divorce, Richard Belzer moved to New York City in 1972 and started working as a stand-up comic. He performed at various venues such as Pips, The Improv, and Catch a Rising Star. Later on, he tried his hand at some small movie roles and can be found on Sesame Street and in movies like Fame, Café Flesh, Night Shift, and Scarface.

Richard Belzer’s iconic portrayal of Detective John Munch became a fan favorite on Homicide: Life on the Street (1993–1999) and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (1999–2013). His last appearance on “SVU” was in 2016 as he retired from acting at age 71 in 2016.

Richard Belzer Net Worth

At the time of his death, Richard Belzer’s net worth was estimated to be around $16 million. His primary source of income was from his work as an actor and comedian, as well as from the sales of his books. He had a long and successful career spanning several decades, and has worked on numerous films, TV shows, and comedy specials.

Richard Belzer – Personal Life

Richard Belzer was married thrice in his lifetime. He was married to Gail Susan Ross from 1966–72, and boutique manager Dalia Danoch from 1976 – 1978. In 1981 in Los Angeles, he met 31-year-old Harlee McBride, who was appearing in TV commercials for Ford and acting in the free theater. They got married in 1985. Richard Belzer had no biological children though he has two stepdaughters from his current marriage to McBride.

Richard Belzer Film Career

Richard Belzer has acted in several movies, including “The Groove Tube,” “Fame,” “Café Flesh,” “Scarface,” “The Bonfire of the Vanities,” and “Off and Running.”

Richard Belzer’s Death

Richard Belzer passed away on February 19, 2023, at age 78, from complications of unspecified circulatory and respiratory conditions. His death was confirmed by Bill Scheft, a friend of Richard Belzer. Bill Scheft, who has been working on a documentary about Mr. Belzer’s life and career, said that Richard Belzer had suffered from circulatory and respiratory issues for years.