Richard Stahl

Richard Stahl (January 4, 1932 – June 18, 2006) was an American character actor best remembered for his deft comic timing on both the small and big screen. Born in Detroit, Michigan, he moved to California at the age of fifteen, a relocation that would later position him at the heart of the burgeoning entertainment industry. After serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, Stahl pursued formal training at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, where his passion for improvisational comedy began to blossom. In 1959, while performing in off‑Broadway productions, he met actress Kathryn Ish, whom he married later that year; the couple would become a formidable duo in the improv troupe The Committee after relocating to San Francisco in the early 1960s. Stahl’s film résumé includes notable titles such as Five Easy Pieces, High Anxiety, 9 to 5, and Ghosts of Mississippi, each showcasing his ability to infuse supporting roles with memorable humor. On television, he appeared in a litany of beloved series—Columbo, The Odd Couple, Barney Miller, Laverne & Shirley, Newhart, and Empty Nest—often portraying quirky, fast‑talking characters that resonated with audiences. He co‑starred in the short‑lived 1979 comedy mini‑series Turnabout and enjoyed a steady gig from 1985 to 1989 as a regular on the sitcom It’s a Living. Despite a prolific career spanning over three decades, his later years were marred by a decade‑long battle with Parkinson’s disease, which ultimately led to his death at the Motion Picture and Television Fund Health Center in Los Angeles at age 74. His wife, Kathryn Ish, survived him until her own passing from cancer in 2007, leaving behind two children who remember their father’s relentless wit and dedication to his craft. His memorable performances continue to influence aspiring comedians and character actors today.