Actor Richard Roat, known for roles in Seinfeld, Friends and Golden Girls, has passed away at the age of 89.
Richard Roat, an 89-year-old veteran actor from Golden Girls, Seinfeld and Friends has passed away. As confirmed by his wife, Kathy Roat earlier this week, Richard died on Friday, August 5, in Orange County, California.
As declared in the actor’s obituary, published in The Los Angeles Times (August 28), Richard Roat died “suddenly,” and no particular cause has been reported on thus far.

Speaking on his career legacy, the obituary reads: “Richard had amassed over 135 acting roles on television, film, and on Broadway. He guest starred on ‘The Golden Girls’ twice, the first as a Murder Mystery Host and later playing Betty White’s boyfriend, only to be found dead in her bed the next morning. He appeared in ‘Friends,’ ‘Seinfeld,’ ‘Hill Street Blues,’ and just about every TV show going back to ‘Car 54 Where Are You’.”
Over a 50-year career, Richard Roat made his mark as a memorable talent across several roles in hit television shows. Since the news of his passing came to light, tributes have poured out from friends, family, fans, and co-stars alike. See some of the heartwarming messages honoring the actor below.
Such sad news about Richard Roat who died on the 5th of August but his death was announced yesterday. RIP Richard 💜
He played Kendall/Al in the show. I remember the episode well. pic.twitter.com/IybdWciNAE
— The Golden Girls Fan (@TheGoldenFanboy) September 1, 2022
Aside from being a great character actor, Richard Roat was my tax guy ("When he wasn’t acting, Roat prepared taxes for many people in the entertainment industry.")
My heart goes out to his wife Kathy, one of the warmest people I've ever met.
R.I.P.https://t.co/opQOr9wWqW
— Scott Frank (@hollywoodsapien) September 1, 2022
Richard Roat, a well-known character actor who died earlier this month at the age of 89, was born Richard Franklin. He appeared in some of the most revered television programs throughout history, including Seinfeld, Friends, Cheers, Dallas, Happy Days, Murphy Brown and Hawai… pic.twitter.com/PQDIRi5YWn
— Casper Raymundo (@CasperRaymundo) September 1, 2022