Richard Herd Biography (2025): Age, Wife, Family, Net Worth, Movies & TV Shows

Richard Herd was a distinguished American actor, best known for his memorable roles in television and film, particularly as Mr. Wilhelm on Seinfeld and Admiral William Noyce on seaQuest DSV. With a career spanning over five decades, he left an indelible mark on Hollywood and became a beloved figure for audiences worldwide, thanks to his versatility and commanding presence on screen.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Richard Herd was born on September 26, 1932, in Boston, Massachusetts. Raised in a working-class family, he developed an early passion for the performing arts. Herd attended local Boston schools, where his interest in acting and painting blossomed. Although specific details about his higher education remain private, his formative years in Massachusetts greatly influenced his creative pursuits, instilling a lifelong love for both acting and the visual arts.

Career Journey

Beginnings

Richard Herd started his career in the early 1970s, initially appearing in stage productions and minor television roles. His deep voice and authoritative presence quickly caught the attention of casting directors.

Breakthrough & Milestones

• Gained national attention with his role as Supreme Commander John in the sci-fi miniseries V (1983).
• Cast as Mr. Wilhelm, George Costanza’s boss, in the iconic sitcom Seinfeld (1995–1998).
• Portrayed Admiral William Noyce in seaQuest DSV (1993–1996).
• Appeared in notable films such as All the President’s Men (1976), The China Syndrome (1979), and Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987).

Later Career & Voice Work

• Featured in recurring roles on Star Trek: Voyager and Star Trek: The Next Generation.
• Voiced characters in popular video games, including Fallout 4.
• Continued guest appearances on TV shows like NYPD Blue, Quantum Leap, and Desperate Housewives.

Legacy & Achievements

• Acted in over 100 television episodes and more than 40 films.
• Regarded as one of Hollywood’s most reliable character actors.

Personal Life

Richard Herd was married three times, with his final marriage to actress Patricia Crowder Herd enduring until his passing. He was the father of two children and cherished his family life. Outside of acting, Herd was a talented painter and writer, often displaying his artwork at local galleries. He was known for his warm personality, mentorship of young actors, and active involvement in charitable causes, especially those related to the arts and veterans’ affairs.

Awards & Achievements

• Screen Actors Guild member for over 40 years
• Recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Sci-Fi Film Festival (2018)
• Honored by multiple fan conventions for his contributions to science fiction television

Physical Statistics

• Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
• Weight: 190 lbs (86 kg)
• Hair Color: Gray
• Eye Color: Blue
• Build: Athletic

Quotes

• “Acting is about truth, and truth is never boring.”
• “I always loved playing characters with authority — it’s a fun challenge to bring warmth to those roles.”
• “The arts are the soul of our society; they remind us of our shared humanity.”

Controversies

Richard Herd maintained a relatively controversy-free career. He was respected for his professionalism and positive relationships in the industry. There were no significant public scandals or debates associated with his name, which further solidified his reputation as a reliable and well-liked actor.

Favorites

• Favorite Movie Genre: Science Fiction
• Favorite Actor: Spencer Tracy
• Favorite Hobbies: Painting, reading historical novels
• Favorite Food: New England clam chowder
• Favorite Place: Boston, Massachusetts

Salary & Net Worth

At the time of his passing in 2020, Richard Herd’s estimated net worth was approximately $3 million. His income was primarily derived from his extensive work in television and film, along with occasional earnings from voice acting and art exhibitions. According to industry benchmarks, seasoned character actors in Hollywood can earn between $50,000 and $200,000 per year, depending on roles and syndication royalties.

Interesting Facts

• Richard Herd was also a published author and poet.
• He was an avid supporter of veterans’ organizations, having lost his father in World War II.
• Herd’s artwork was exhibited in several galleries across California and Massachusetts.
• He made guest appearances at over 30 fan conventions worldwide.
• Despite his tough-guy roles, he was known for his kindness and generosity off-screen.

Social Media Links

• Facebook: Richard Herd Official
• Twitter/X: @RichardHerd
• Instagram: @richardherdactor
• LinkedIn: Richard Herd
• YouTube: Richard Herd Video Clips

Frequently Asked Questions

• How old was Richard Herd when he died?
  Richard Herd was 87 years old when he passed away in May 2020.
• What was Richard Herd best known for?
  He was best known for his roles as Mr. Wilhelm on Seinfeld and Admiral Noyce on seaQuest DSV.
• Was Richard Herd married?
  Yes, he was married to Patricia Crowder Herd until his death.
• How much was Richard Herd’s net worth?
  His estimated net worth was about $3 million at the time of his passing.
• Did Richard Herd have children?
  Yes, he had two children.
• What other TV shows did he appear in?
  He appeared in Star Trek: Voyager, Quantum Leap, NYPD Blue, and many more.

Conclusion

Richard Herd’s legacy in Hollywood is defined by his remarkable versatility, professionalism, and dedication to the craft of acting. His memorable performances continue to inspire both audiences and aspiring actors alike. If you enjoyed learning about his life and career, please share this biography with friends and fellow fans!

Sources: The New York Times, Variety, Hollywood Reporter, IMDb, Los Angeles Times