Richard Moll, the talented character and voice actor renowned for his iconic role as Bull Shannon, the lovable bailiff on NBC’s original “Night Court,” has peacefully passed away at the age of 80, according to a statement from family spokesperson Jeff Sanderson. Moll’s departure occurred on October 26 at his residence in Big Bear Lake, California.
Born in Pasadena, California, Moll ventured into the acting world through commercials and minor television roles. He stood tall at 6’8″, possessing a commanding presence. Moll’s breakthrough came with his portrayal of Bull Shannon, a big-hearted and occasionally naive character in the long-running series “Night Court,” which aired from 1984 to 1992. Despite his size, Moll’s charm and genuine moments endeared him to viewers, making Bull Shannon one of the most beloved characters on television.
While “Night Court” was his most notable performance, Moll also appeared in “Jingle All the Way,” “Scary Movie 2,” “Smallville,” and “Spider-Man: The Animated Series.” Post-“Night Court” voice acting included playing Two-Face in “Batman: The Animated Series” and “Batman: The Brave and the Bold,” as well as video game roles.
Beyond his entertainment career, Moll displayed a serious side. In 1989, he testified before the House Select Committee on Aging, advocating for increased funding for Alzheimer’s Disease research, a cause close to his heart due to his father’s battle with the illness.
In his later years, Moll embraced the tranquility of the outdoors, residing in the scenic San Bernardino mountain community of Big Bear Lake. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter and memorable performances, survived by his former wife, two children, and two stepchildren. Richard Moll’s talent and warmth will be fondly remembered by fans worldwide.
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