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RIP, Richard Belzer

February 19, 2023 by WendyB

I was sad to see that Richard Belzer died today, aged 78. Belzer first rose to prominence as a stand-up comic, but he became famous with a capital F when he was cast as television’s sardonic Detective Munch, a character he played on two different shows — Homicide and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit — over a span of 23 years.

Belzer was definitely the highlight of any episode he was in, and I became a big fan during my days of working from home with the TV on in the background. I wrote a whopping six blog posts either about or mentioning Belzer. By far the best post was written after MrB’s loud laugh attracted Belzer’s attention in a restaurant, resulting in this voicemail.

DETECTIVE MUNCH CALLED ME FROM LUNCH.

Despite my enthusiasm for Belzer’s television role, I never delved into his background. This Hollywood Reporter obituary covers his traumatic childhood; the time Hulk Hogan knocked him unconscious; and a job he took to pay for a Hawaiian vacation. It politely omits his promotion of JFK conspiracy theories and his endorsement of grotesque right-wing radio host Alex Jones. Dammit! I’m glad I discovered the latter facts posthumously.

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Filed Under: In the News, obits Tagged With: law & order svu, richard belzer

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MEET WENDY BRANDES

Award-winning designer of fine jewelry inspired by women's history and pop culture. A former journalist who writes about jewelry, fashion, medieval history, news, feminism, dogs, cats and whatever else is on her mind. Blogging since 2007.
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Original jewelry designs, photos and text are © Wendy Brandes 2007-2016. All rights reserved.

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