The official cause of death for Richard Riehle, the prolific character actor known for his work in Office Space, Bridesmaids, Casino, and many other productions, has been confirmed. According to his death certificate, obtained by TMZ, Riehle passed away due to a stroke, with oropharyngeal cancer, which affects the throat, listed as the underlying cause.
Riehle died on October 15 at his home in Los Angeles. He was 78 years old.
Announcement of his passing
His representatives confirmed the news to Deadline shortly after his death. In a statement, the agency noted: We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of our beloved client, Richard Riehle, this past weekend.
The statement continued by highlighting his career: An extraordinary actor whose career in theater, film, and television spanned nearly five decades and more than 400 projects, Richard leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. Beyond his immense talent, he will be remembered for his genuine kindness, his tireless generosity, and his constant support, particularly toward emerging actors and filmmakers, whom he encouraged and backed at every opportunity. Our industry has lost an exceptional talent, and our community has lost a truly wonderful man.
His most remembered role in Office Space
One of Richard Riehle's best-known roles was that of Tom Smykowski, a cynical product manager at Initech, in Mike Judge's satirical comedy Office Space (1999). In that film, he starred alongside Ron Livingston, Jennifer Aniston, Stephen Root, and Gary Cole.
An extensive filmography spanning nearly five decades
In addition to Office Space, Riehle's film career included titles such as Joyride (1977), Black Rain (1989), Of Mice and Men (1992), Free Willy (1993), The Fugitive (1993), Lightning Jack (1994), Casino (1995), Ghosts of Mississippi (1996), The Odd Couple II (1998), and Lethal Weapon 4 (1998).
He also appeared in Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo (1999), Joe Dirt (2001), Beethoven's 5th (2003), Wedding Crashers (2005), National Lampoon's Dorm Daze 2 (2006), Red (2008), Halloween II (2009), Bridesmaids (2011), A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas (2011), Texas Chainsaw 3D (2013), and Lovesick (2014). His final film work was in 2026, in The Cowboy Killer.
His work in television
In television, Riehle debuted with the film The Other Side of Hell, followed by appearances in My Two Dads (1989), Dragnet (1989), and Falcon Crest (1989). He also appeared in series such as Quantum Leap, Murder, She Wrote, L.A. Law, Ferris Bueller, The Golden Girls, Roseanne, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Ally McBeal, The Practice, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Chicago Hope, and Home Improvement, among others.
Among his most recent television credits are American Housewife (2019) and Fuller House (2020). His final role was as Warden Reynolds in the HBO series Barry (2023).
Frequently asked questions about the death of Richard Riehle
What was the cause of death for Richard Riehle?
According to his death certificate, obtained by TMZ, Richard Riehle died from a stroke, with oropharyngeal cancer as an underlying cause.
When and where did Richard Riehle die?
The actor passed away on October 15 at his home in Los Angeles at the age of 78.
For which role is Richard Riehle best remembered?
Richard Riehle is especially remembered for playing Tom Smykowski in Mike Judge's comedy Office Space (1999), alongside Ron Livingston, Jennifer Aniston, Stephen Root, and Gary Cole.
What was Richard Riehle’s final project?
His final film appearance was in The Cowboy Killer (2026), while his final television role was as Warden Reynolds in the HBO series Barry (2023).
What did Richard Riehle’s representatives say about his death?
His representatives noted in a statement to Deadline that Riehle was an extraordinary actor whose career spanned nearly five decades and more than 400 projects, and they highlighted his kindness, generosity, and constant support for emerging actors and filmmakers.
