Richard Ward (actor) facts for kids

Richard Ward (born March 15, 1915 – died July 1, 1979) was a talented African American actor. He was known for his deep voice. Richard Ward acted on stage, in movies, and on television for many years. He started his acting career in 1949 and continued until he passed away. Many people remember him from his TV roles later in his life. He appeared in popular TV shows like sitcoms and police dramas. He also had a long career in films and on stage. One of his most famous stage roles was playing Willy Loman in a play called Death of a Salesman in 1972. This was special because it was the first time an African American actor played that role with the playwright's approval.

Richard Ward's Life and Acting Career

Richard Ward was born in Glenside, Pennsylvania. Before he became an actor, he worked as a police detective. He served as a detective in New York City for ten years. After that, he decided to start his acting career.

Early TV and Stage Work

Richard Ward studied acting at the Actors Studio. He made his first television appearance in 1950. This was on the Perry Como Show. Later, he appeared in many TV drama series. These included shows like Playhouse 90, Studio One, and Hallmark Hall of Fame. In the 1970s, he became a familiar face on popular sitcoms. He was seen on shows such as Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman, All in the Family, and The Jeffersons.

Famous TV Appearances

Richard Ward made three guest appearances on the TV show Good Times. He played Henry, who was the father of the character James. Henry had left James's family when James was younger. In his first episode, James's daughter Thelma found Henry working at a ship port. She brought him home to surprise James for his birthday. At first, James was upset to see him. But after a heartfelt talk, James welcomed his father to the celebration. James wished he could have more time with his dad. Richard Ward appeared in two more episodes of Good Times after James's character had passed away.

Ward also appeared on the show Sanford and Son. He was in an episode called "The Stung" in 1975. In this episode, he played a professional gambler. The main character, Fred, asked him to teach Lamont and his friends a lesson. Richard Ward also played Captain Dobey in the pilot episode for the police show Starsky & Hutch. However, in the actual series, a different actor played that role. Ward did appear as a different character in one episode of the final season of Starsky & Hutch. He passed away shortly after this appearance due to a heart attack.

Filmography