Renowned American Actor Passes Away at 80



by NOUMAN RASOOL

Renowned American Actor Passes Away at 80
Renowned American Actor Passes Away at 80 © David Livingston/Getty Images

Richard Moll, an iconic figure in American television and celebrated for his role as Aristotle Nostradamus "Bull" Shannon on NBC's classic sitcom 'Night Court', passed away at the age of 80. On October 26th, the tall actor breathed his last in the serene surroundings of his Big Bear Lake home in California.

'Night Court', which aired from 1984 to 1992, was renowned for its comedic spin on the justice system, and Moll's character 'Bull' became a household name. The show's memorable finale involved Moll's character being hilariously abducted by extraterrestrials, who justified the act by their need for someone tall enough to access their highest shelves.

Beyond this legendary role, Moll showcased his versatility by making appearances in films like 'The Flintstones' in 1994 and 'Scary Movie 2'

Entertainment World Mourns

Entertainment Weekly recently paid tribute to the late actor, highlighting his impressive stature and gentle demeanor that endeared him to audiences.

Confirming his passing, a representative for Moll told EW about the peaceful nature of his departure. Born on January 13, 1943, in Pasadena, California, Richard Moll was the youngest of three siblings. His academic journey led him to UC Berkeley, where he earned a degree in history.

Despite his father's legal profession, Moll's passion drove him towards the world of acting. He started his artistic journey performing Shakespearean plays at the Will Geer Theatre and soon transitioned to the broader horizons of film and television.

Despite his towering height of 6 foot 8 inches initially posing challenges for him in landing roles, Moll's distinct voice and commanding on-screen presence quickly became his trademarks. His acting journey includes commendable stints on shows such as 'Happy Days', 'Laverne & Shirley', and 'Mork & Mindy'

His diverse range extended to movies where he played varied roles, from an abominable snowman in the 1981 film 'Caveman' to a war veteran in the 1986 movie 'House' But it was 'Night Court' that solidified Moll's place in television history.

He graced the show throughout its run, from its inception in 1984 to its conclusion in 1992. Interestingly, Moll chose not to return for the 'Night Court' reboot last year, allowing his original portrayal to remain timeless.