Introduction
Richard Herd was an American actor who graced our screens for over five decades. He was known for his versatile acting skills and his ability to bring life to any character he played. Herd was a prolific actor, and his work in the entertainment industry spanned across various genres, including television, film, and stage productions. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the life and career of Richard Herd and his contributions to the Star Trek franchise and beyond.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Education
Richard Herd was born on September 26, 1932, in Boston, Massachusetts. He grew up in a family of five, and his father was a railway engineer. Herd attended Boston University, where he studied acting and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. After graduation, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting.
Early Acting Career
Richard Herd began his acting career in the 1960s, where he appeared in various stage productions. He made his television debut in 1962, where he appeared in an episode of the series “The Doctors and the Nurses.” He also appeared in several films, including “Hercules in New York” (1969) and “The China Syndrome” (1979). In the 1980s, Herd became a familiar face on television, appearing in popular shows such as “T.J. Hooker,” “Dallas,” and “Seinfeld.”
Richard Herd in Star Trek
Role in Star Trek: The Next Generation
Richard Herd is perhaps best known for his role as Admiral Owen Paris in the Star Trek franchise. He first appeared in the series “Star Trek: The Next Generation” in the episode “Conspiracy” (1988). Herd’s character was the father of Tom Paris, a character who later appeared in “Star Trek: Voyager.” He reprised his role in several episodes of “Star Trek: Voyager” and also appeared in the film “Star Trek: Renegades” (2015).
Impact on Star Trek Franchise
Richard Herd’s contribution to the Star Trek franchise cannot be overstated. He brought a sense of authority and gravitas to his role as Admiral Owen Paris, and his performances were always memorable. Herd’s portrayal of the character helped to humanize the Starfleet officers and added depth to their relationships. His legacy in the Star Trek franchise will always be remembered.
Richard Herd’s Legacy
Other Notable Roles
Aside from his work in the Star Trek franchise, Richard Herd appeared in numerous other television shows and films. Some of his notable roles include playing Karl Malden’s partner in “The Streets of San Francisco” (1972-1977), the villainous John in “V” (1983-1985), and Mr. Wilhelm in “Seinfeld” (1995-1998).
Death and Legacy
Richard Herd passed away on May 26, 2020, at the age of 87. His death was attributed to complications from cancer. Herd’s legacy will always be remembered, and his contributions to the entertainment industry will continue to inspire future generations of actors.
Conclusion
Richard Herd was a talented actor who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His versatility and ability to bring life to any character he played made him a beloved figure in the industry. Herd’s work in the Star Trek franchise and beyond will always be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors to come.
