Richard De Angelis was an American actor who is best known for his role as Col. Raymond Foerster in the HBO series “The Wire,” as well as appearances in “Homicide: The Movie” and John Waters’ films. Born on June 24, 1932, in Boston, Massachusetts, he embarked on an acting career later in life after his time as an accountant and a Navy serviceman.
Personal and Family Life
Richard De Angelis served in the Navy during the Korean War and worked as an accountant for 14 years before pursuing acting. He made significant life changes at the age of 38, quitting smoking, becoming a vegetarian, and enrolling in acting school. De Angelis was married twice, first to Barbara Porebski and later to Karen Wells, both of which ended in divorce.
Career
He began his acting career at an older age, performing in various plays, TV commercials, radio spots, and print advertisements over four decades. De Angelis gained fame for his performance in “The Wire,” where he played a prominent role until his passing in December 2005. He also ventured into stand-up comedy under the name Richy Roach and earned a master’s degree in theater arts from the University of Maryland in 1983.
Death and Legacy
Richard De Angelis died on December 28, 2005, at his home in Silver Spring, Maryland, due to congestive heart failure, compounded by complications from prostate cancer. His contributions to television and film are remembered by fans and colleagues alike, showcasing his talent across various performance mediums throughout his life.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Wire | 2002-06-02 | Col. Raymond Foerster |
| Homicide: The Movie | 2000-02-13 | Witness #1 |
| A Dirty Shame | 2004-09-24 | Neuter Man with Sub-Titles |
| Chances Are | 1989-03-10 | Hot Dog Vendor |
| First Monday in October | 1981-08-21 | News Producer |
| Replay | 2003-11-07 | Morty |
| The Death of Ocean View Park | 1979-10-19 |