Richard Dysart, a veteran actor of the screen and stage best known for his role as Leland McKenzie on the hit series L.A. Law, died Sunday at his home. He was 86. His publicist confirmed Dysart’s passing to the media. Dysart was on L.A. Law for the Stephen Bochco-created show’s duration, from 1986-1994, winning an Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama in 1992. The Boston-born star accumulated dozens of other small- and big-screen credits to his name over the course of his nearly five-decade career, as well. Fans may remember Dysart for roles in films such as The Thing, The Falcon and the Snowman, Mask, Wall Street and Back to the Future Part III . Family and friends say his heart remained in the theater, where he got his start, and where he founded the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco. Dysart’s Broadway credits are even more impressive than his screen resume. A.C.T. paid tribute to him today on Facebook, saying in a statement: “A.C.T. mourns the loss of one of our founding members, Richard Dysart … Richard was a true actor’s actor; we celebrate the life of this incredible talent.” Blair Underwood, who co-starred on L.A. Law with him, wrote: “I just found that my old friend Richard Dysart passed away today; age 86. A big heart and perfect gentleman. You will be missed! #LAlaw #the1990s.” Debi Mazar offered a similar sentiment, tweeting: “R.I.P #RichardDysart amazing actor whom I’ve had the privledge to work on LA Law! He was our ‘dad’ on the set.My condolences to his family.” View Slideshow: Celebrities We Lost in 2015
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Richard Dysart Dies: L.A. Law Actor Was 86
