Richard Belzer, the comedian and actor best known for playing Detective John Munch across a number of NBC crime dramas, including “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” over more than two decades, passed away, Sunday morning – he was 78.
According to manager, Eric Gardner, Belzar “passed away peacefully” at his private home in Bozouls in southwest France.
Writer and longtime friend, Bill Scheft, said the actor had “lots of health issues,” and that his last words were “Fuck you, mother fucker.” A classic way to go for a witty smart ass and stand-up legend.
Belzer’s most famous role, Detective John Munch, was a character that he portrayed for over two decades across multiple TV shows. In addition to his work in “Homicide” and “Law & Order: SVU,” he made guest appearances as Munch on shows such as “The X-Files,” “Arrested Development,” and “The Wire.”
In addition to his acting work, Belzer was also an author, having published several books including the crime novel “I Am Not a Cop!” and the memoir “I Should Have Been a Drummer.”
Belzer has also been an advocate for various social and political causes throughout his career, including animal rights, gun control, and 9/11 conspiracy theories. He continued to be an active presence in the entertainment industry and was highly respected by his peers and fans, alike.
Belzar is survived by his third wife, Harlee McBride (they married in 1985, and she played medical examiner Alyssa Dyer on Homicide), and stepdaughters, Jessica and Bree.
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