The world of entertainment has bid farewell to a beloved figure, as actor Richard Moll passed away at the age of 80 at his home in Big Bear Lake, California. Standing at an imposing 6 feet 8 inches, Moll was best known for his iconic role as the affable bailiff Bull Shannon on the hit TV show “Night Court.” The show, which ran from 1984 to 1992, captured the hearts of audiences with its blend of humor and quirky characters. Moll’s portrayal of Bull endeared him to fans and left an indelible mark on the world of television.
While “Night Court” was undoubtedly the cornerstone of Moll’s career, his talents extended far beyond the courtroom. He earned a Saturn award nomination for his role in the 1985 horror film “House” and lent his distinctive voice to various animated characters, including Harvey Dent/Two-Face on “The Adventures of Batman & Robin” and Scorpion on “Spider-Man: The Animated Series.” His versatility allowed him to effortlessly transition between live-action and animation, showcasing the depth of his talent.
Moll’s filmography included appearances in notable movies like “The Flintstones,” “Jingle All the Way,” “Casper Meets Wendy,” and “Scary Movie 2.” Beyond the big screen, he graced the small screen with recurring roles in sitcoms such as “Getting By” and a voice acting role as the bodyguard in “Mighty Max.”
One of the standout moments in Moll’s career was his role in the 1999 satirical film “But I’m a Cheerleader.” In this thought-provoking comedy, he portrayed a gay man who guided teenagers sent to a re-education camp by concerned parents. The film shed light on the sensitive topic of sexual orientation and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth. Moll’s performance in this film demonstrated his willingness to take on roles that had a powerful and positive message.
Throughout his career, Moll made numerous television appearances, leaving his mark on popular shows like “Sabrina, the Teenage Witch,” “7th Heaven,” and “Smallville.” He continued to explore various genres, from horror in “Nightmare Man” (2006) to heartwarming in “Thomas Kinkade’s Christmas Cottage,” where he starred alongside Peter O’Toole, Marcia Gay Harden, and Ed Asner.
