Actor Richard Belzer, famous for his role in Law & Order, has died. He was 78 years old.
While neither Belzer’s family nor his representatives have issued any statements, his death was confirmed by multiple friends and peers on social media. Laraine Newman, who worked with Belzer during their time on Saturday Night Live, was among the first to share the sad news.
After beginning his career as a comedian with appearances on SNL between 1975 and 1980, along with a notable cameo in the classic gangster film, Scarface, he became a star in 1993 as Detective John Munch on Homicide: Life on the Streets. He would also portray the character in Law & Order and Law & Order: SVU. In 2008, he was nominated for a People’s Choice Award for best scene-stealing star for his work on SVU.
Belzer’s costars Christopher Meloni and Mariska Hargitay shared their tributes, with Hargitay posting on Instagram, “I feel blessed to have known you and adored you and worked with you, side by side, for so many years.”
Other tributes rolled in as well, with many stars saluting their friend, including Jon Stewart and Marc Maron.
As the news circulated online, fans shared both their memories and condolences.
Belzer’s cause of death has not been released.