Richard Mulligan: The Emmy-Winning Character Actor
A Sitcom Legend
Richard Mulligan, an American character actor, is best known for his iconic roles in the sitcoms
Soap (1977-1981) and
Empty Nest (1988-1995). With a career spanning over three decades, Mulligan's impressive repertoire has earned him two Emmy Awards and one Golden Globe Award.
Early Life and Career
Born on November 13, 1932, in New York City, Mulligan served in the Navy during the Korean War before pursuing a career in the arts. He studied playwriting at Columbia University and began his journey in theatre, making his Broadway debut as a stage manager and performer in
All the Way Home in 1960. His early theatre credits include
A Thousand Clowns,
Never Too Late,
Hogans Goat, and
Thieves.
Breakthrough in Television
Mulligan's breakthrough in television came with the comedy series
The Hero (1966-1967), where he starred alongside
Mariette Hartley as TV star Sam Garrett. Although the show only lasted for 16 episodes, it marked the beginning of Mulligan's successful television career. He went on to appear in notable TV shows such as
I Dream of Jeannie,
Gunsmoke, and
The Rat Patrol.
Film Career
Mulligan's most notable film role was as General
George Armstrong Custer in
Little Big Man (1970), where he portrayed the historical figure as a borderline psychotic. He also appeared in the disaster movie spoof
The Big Bus (1976) and the 1966 film
The Group, where he played Dick Brown, Harolds Hagman's New York artist friend.
Awards and Accolades
Throughout his career, Mulligan has received numerous awards and nominations for his outstanding performances. He won two Emmy Awards for his roles in
Soap and
Empty Nest, as well as a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series for his performance in
Empty Nest.
Legacy
Richard Mulligan's contributions to the entertainment industry have left a lasting impact on modern television. His iconic roles in
Soap and
Empty Nest continue to entertain audiences to this day, and his impressive career serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors.
Career Highlights
- Won two Emmy Awards for his roles in Soap and Empty Nest
- Won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series for his performance in Empty Nest
- Starred in the sitcoms Soap (1977-1981) and Empty Nest (1988-1995)
- Appeared in notable TV shows such as I Dream of Jeannie, Gunsmoke, and The Rat Patrol
- Played General George Armstrong Custer in Little Big Man (1970)
Personal Life
Richard Mulligan was the younger brother of film director
Robert Mulligan. He passed away on September 26, 2000, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and entertainment that continues to be cherished by audiences around the world.
FAQ
What was Richard Mulligans most notable role?
Richard Mulligans most notable role was as Burt Campbell in the TV series Soap, for which he won two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series.
What was Richard Mulligans early life like?
Richard Mulligan was born on November 13, 1932, in New York City. He grew up in a show business family and began his acting career on stage in the 1950s.
What awards did Richard Mulligan win?
Richard Mulligan won two Emmy Awards for his role in Soap, as well as a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series.
What were some of Richard Mulligans notable films?
Some of Richard Mulligans notable films include The Undefeated, Love and Death, and The Heavenly Kid.
What was Richard Mulligans personal life like?
Richard Mulligan was married three times and had two children. He passed away on September 26, 2000, at the age of 67.