Richard Belzer, Who Played Detective John Munch on ‘Law & Order: SVU,’ Passes Away at 78 Years Old

It was reported today that comedian and actor Richard Belzer, who played Detective John Munch on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” has passed away at 78 years old.

A longtime friend of Belzer, writer Bill Scheft, confirmed Munch’s death early this morning and said, “He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F*ck you, motherf*cker.”

Belzer began his career as an edgy stand-up performer and he made his film debut in “The Groove Tube” before making some appearances on “Saturday Night Live.”

Prior to his role in “Law & Order: SVU,” Belzer had played Detective Munch in “Homicide: Life in the Streets” and the original “Law & Order.”

Belzer also was once put to sleep by wrestler Hulk Hogan during a demonstration and required stitches after hitting his head on the floor.

Reactions poured in as many mourned Belzer’s passing on Twitter and shared their thoughts about the late actor and comedian.

Actor Patton Oswalt responded to the news in a tweet where he said, “Aw goddamit, RIP Richard Belzer. I just always thought he’d be around ‘cause it seemed like he always was. A true original. #TheBelzBabe“

Aw goddamit, RIP Richard Belzer. I just always thought he’d be around ‘cause it seemed like he always was. A true original. #TheBelzBabe

— Patton Oswalt (@pattonoswalt) February 19, 2023

Actress Laraine Newman shared a personal story about the two in a tweet as she said, “I’m so sad to hear of Richard Belzer’s passing. I loved this guy so much. He was one of my first friends when I got to New York to do SNL.”

“We used to go out to dinner every week at Sheepshead Bay for lobster. One of the funniest people ever. A master at crowd work. RIP dearest,” Newman explained.

I'm so sad to hear of Richard Belzer's passing. I loved this guy so much. He was one of my first friends when I got to New York to do SNL. We used to go out to dinner every week at Sheepshead Bay for lobster. One of the funniest people ever. A master at crowd work. RIP dearest. pic.twitter.com/u23co0JPA2

— Laraine Newman (@larainenewman) February 19, 2023

A Law & Order: SVU Twitter fan page reacted to the news, “We’re in silence. Heartbreaking news for today. Rest in Peace beloved Richard Belzer.”

We're in silence. Heartbreaking news for today. Rest in Peace beloved Richard Belzer 💔 https://t.co/vvTfyycV63

— Law & Order SVU (@NBCSVU_fans) February 19, 2023