Richard Belzer, Detective Munch on ‘Law & Order: S.V.U.,’ Dies at 78

 

Actor and comedian Richard Belzer, best known for his role as Detective John Munch on the long-running NBC series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," has died at the age of 74.

Belzer's death was confirmed by his family in a statement released on Tuesday. "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Richard Belzer," the statement read. "He was a true original, an iconoclastic spirit, and a master of comic timing. He will be deeply missed."

Belzer was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut in 1944 and began his career as a stand-up comedian in the late 1960s. He made his television debut in 1975 on the NBC sketch comedy show "Saturday Night Live," where he was a regular cast member for two seasons.

Belzer went on to appear in a number of films and television shows, including "The Blues Brothers," "Night Court," and "Homicide: Life on the Street." He was most widely known, however, for his role as Detective John Munch on "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," which he played for 15 seasons.

Belzer is survived by his wife, Harlee McBride, and their two children.