Richard Roat obit

Richard Roat, actor who appeared in ‘Friends’ and ‘Seinfeld,’ dead at 89

 

He was not on the list.

Richard Roat, an actor who amassed an impressive list of credits appearing in dozens of iconic television shows from the early ’60s to the mid-2000s, died earlier this month, according to an obituary from his family published in the Los Angeles Times. He was 89.

Roat was well known for his regular role on the daytime soap opera “The Doctors,” playing Dr. Jerry Chandler. After that project, he went on to consistent work as a character actor, with a body of credits that spanned five decades of television, from “Hawaii Five-O” and “Columbo” in the 70s to “Cold Case” and “24” in the mid-aughts.

He also appeared in episodes of beloved sitcoms like “Friends” (as Ross’s colleague in “The One Where Ross Dates a Student”) and “Seinfeld” (as a doctor in “The Package”).

According to his obituary, Roat had “over 135 acting roles on television, film, and on Broadway.” He also had “a successful practice as an entertainment tax preparer for over 50 years,” the memorial said.

Roat is survived by his wife of more than 40 years, Kathy.

On Friday, August 5, the Lakers and Angels lost their biggest fan. Richard Roat, the most supportive friend a person in the entertainment industry could ever have, passed away suddenly. Richard had amassed over 135 acting roles on television, film, and on Broadway. He guest starred on "The Golden Girls" twice, the first as a Murder Mystery Host and later playing Betty White's boyfriend, only to be found dead in her bed the next morning. He appeared in "Friends," "Seinfeld," "Hill Street Blues," and just about every TV show going back to "Car 54 Where Are You?" Richard performed on Broadway, (Sunday in New York, Any Wednesday, The Wall,) at The Public Theatre in Central Park (Julius Caesar,) The Huntington Hartford Theatre in Los Angeles, (Boys in the Band) and the Pasadena Playhouse (Moon Over Buffalo.) In addition to his distinguished career as an actor, Richard had a successful practice as an entertainment tax preparer for over 50 years. As an individual, Richard was a true Renaissance Man. He loved music, playing the violin, the theatre, movies, literature, provocative conversation, and a good whiskey. Richard loved sports and would have been ecstatic that the Angels won on the Friday night he passed. He had a gorgeous smile, a naughty twinkle in his eyes, and loved to badinage with everyone. His greatest love was his family, with whom he shared his incredible sense of humor, intelligence, and unmatched zest for life. Richard was fortunate to marry the love of his life, his true soulmate, Kathy. They had recently celebrated their fortieth wedding anniversary. Their life together was a magical journey of travel, fun, laughter, and love. It was truly "An Affair to Remember." Richard will be missed by family, friends, colleagues, and clients. He will be thought of often, with warm memories and a quiet chuckle for all the good times he brought to our lives.

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