Richard Cox

Biography

Richard Cox, born on May 6, 1948, in New York City, New York, is an American actor known for his extensive work in film, television, and theater. While he may be recognized for his supporting roles, Cox has built a steady and diverse career over decades, showcasing his talent in a variety of genres.

Early Life and Education:

Cox's family had roots in entertainment; his parents were professional dancers, though his father later transitioned to real estate. Richard himself developed an early interest in the performing arts, appearing on stage with his mother at the age of eight. He pursued a robust academic path, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Yale University, where he dual-majored in drama and anthropology. During his time at Yale, he was even awarded fellowships to travel to Japan, Bali, Samoa, and Poland, indicating a wide range of interests beyond acting.

Career Highlights:

Richard Cox's career is marked by a blend of stage prowess and consistent on-screen appearances.

Theater: He has a strong background in theater, including Broadway productions. Notably, he was nominated for a Tony Award in 1979 for Best Actor (Featured Role - Musical) for his performance in Platinum. He also earned a Clarence Derwent Award for his stage work. Early in his career, he appeared on Broadway with Ingrid Bergman in Captain Brassbound's Conversion.

Film: Cox has appeared in numerous films, often in memorable supporting roles. Some of his notable film credits include:

Cruising (1980): He appeared alongside Al Pacino in this controversial psychological thriller directed by William Friedkin.

The Vindicator (1986): A science fiction horror film.

Executive Suite (1976): A drama based on the 1954 film.

King of the Mountain (1981): A racing drama.

Looking for Richard (1996): Al Pacino's documentary on Shakespeare's Richard III, where Cox appeared as himself and Lord Catesby.

Other film appearances include Seizure (1974), Between the Lines (1977), Hellhole (1985), Zombie High (1987), and Radio Free Albemuth (2010).

Television: Cox has had a particularly prolific career in television, with numerous guest-starring and recurring roles across many popular series. He is well-known for:

Max Frazier in Ghostwriter (1992-1995): A significant recurring role in the popular children's mystery series.

Recurring roles in series like Executive Suite (early in his career), Robert Altman's critically acclaimed miniseries Tanner '88, and The Visitor.

Guest appearances on a wide array of hit shows, demonstrating his versatility, including:

Law & Order

Star Trek: The Next Generation (as Kyril Finn in the episode "The High Ground")

The X-Files

ER

CSI: Miami

The Mentalist

NCIS: Los Angeles

Grey's Anatomy

Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life

Richard Cox's sustained career showcases his talent as a reliable and compelling character actor who has brought depth and presence to a vast range of productions across different media. He continues to be a familiar face to audiences who appreciate his consistent contributions to the entertainment industry.