Richard Belzer dead at 78: Law & Order star dies after health battle
LAW & Order star Richard Belzer has tragically died aged 78.
The iconic TV actor was best known for playing Detective John Munch in the series’ spin off show Law & Order: SVU.
Belzer is understood to have passed away this morning at his home in Bozouls in southwest France.
Bill Scheft – writer and long-time pal of Belzer, told The Hollywood Reporter: “He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F*** you, motherf***er.’”
His cause of death has yet to be confirmed.
Laraine Newman – an original Saturday Night Live cast member – took to Twitter to pay tribute to the iconic actor.
“I’m so sad to hear of Richard Belzer’s passing. I loved this guy so much. He was one of my first friends when I got to New York to do SNL,” Newman wrote.
“One of the funniest people ever. A master at crowd work. RIP dearest.”
Newman worked alongside Belzer from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, per TMZ.
Belzer starred in Law & Order: SVU for 15 seasons.
His co-star Mariska Hargitay posted a touching tribute to him on Instagram.
She said: “Goodbye my dear, dear friend.
“I will miss you, your unique light and your singular take on this strange world.
“I feel blessed to have known you and adored you and worked with you, side by side, for so many years.”
The heartbroken actress added: “How lucky the angels are to have you.
“I can hear them laughing already.
“I love you so very much, now and forever.”