Character actor Richard Riehle, best known for his role as Tom Smykowski in the 1999 cult comedy “Office Space” and for appearing in “Casino,” has died at 78. His death occurred over the weekend, according to his representatives, who confirmed the news to Fox News Digital. The circumstances were not immediately disclosed.
In a statement, Riehle’s representatives said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of our beloved client, Richard Riehle, this past weekend. A remarkable actor whose career in theater, film, and television spanned nearly five decades and more than 400 projects, Richard leaves behind an extraordinary legacy.”
They added that he would be remembered for more than his work on screen. “Beyond his immense talent, he will be remembered for his genuine goodness, boundless kindness, and unwavering generosity, particularly toward emerging actors and filmmakers, whom he encouraged and supported at every opportunity.”
“Our industry has lost an exceptional talent, and our community has lost a truly wonderful man,” the statement continued. “We ask that his family’s privacy be respected during this difficult time.”
A Five-Decade Career
Riehle was born in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, and got his start in theater while a student at the University of Notre Dame. He made his film debut in a small part in the 1977 drama “Joyride.”
Over the following decades he built a reputation as a reliable and prolific character actor, appearing in more than 400 film and television projects. Beyond “Office Space,” where he played the luckless Initech product manager Tom Smykowski, Riehle had a recurring role as principal Ed Rooney in the television adaptation of “Ferris Bueller” and appeared in 45 episodes of “Grounded for Life.”
His television credits also include “Murder She Wrote,” “Ally McBeal,” “Married to the Kellys,” “Home Improvement,” “The West Wing,” “NCIS,” and multiple appearances across the “Star Trek” franchise.
At the time of his death, Riehle had ten projects still in the works, including “Made Vicious,” alongside the late Tom Sizemore, and “Mr. Blue,” with Daniel Baldwin.
He is survived by his wife, Jane Latham, and their four children.
