Richard Kline: Actor, Age, Spouse, Net Worth, Movies & TV Shows

Early Life and Background

Richard Kline was born in Queens, New York City, on April 29, 1944, and nurtured in the city's ethnic melting pot. A Reform Jewish upbringing may have instilled strong family and community values, which may have influenced his passion to his work and fellow actors.

His artistic side developed early. He may have discovered his love of theater at William Cullen Bryant High School, famed for its arts activities. He was even more passionate after attending Queens College. His liberal arts background may have included literature, history, and philosophy classes that influenced his acting choices.

However, Richard's journey went beyond the stage.  His desire to earn a Master of Fine Arts from Northwestern University shows his passion to his work. Northwestern's theater program is noted for its rigorous training and esteemed alumni. Richard would have worked with brilliant peers and experienced teachers to improve his acting skills and explore other theatrical techniques here.

It's easy to forget Richard's Vietnam War duty.  His United States Army lieutenant experience speaks eloquently about his character. War problems need courage, resilience, and leadership under pressure. These traits may have helped him survive the acting industry and overcome disappointments.

While his military experiences are private, they shaped Richard Kline as a man and actor.

Education

Richard Kline's education was about developing his acting skills and preparing for a career.

His Queens College education certainly gave him an excellent liberal arts background. Literary, historical, and philosophical courses would have taught actors critical thinking, appreciation for other perspectives, and a greater grasp of the human condition. He could play characters with deep agendas and navigate scripts' emotional depths with this base.

However, his decision to obtain an MFA in Theater from Northwestern University changed everything. This elite program is known for its rigorous training and remarkable performing abilities. Richard would have been in a craft-focused culture here.

Imagine dedicated pupils, acting workshops, and renowned professors pushing him to succeed. He likely studied Stanislavski, Meisner, or Adler's character development methods. Voice and movement classes would have improved his stage presence, while acting for camera would have prepared him for TV and cinema.

Northwestern's esteemed academics likely shaped Richard's career.  Famous acting tutors or directors may have helped him develop his talent. Their mentorship and Northwestern's competitive climate would have pushed him to thrive, strengthening his career-defining technical talents and creative confidence.

Northwestern's MFA program gave students the skills and training they needed to succeed in professional acting. This rigorous education, ability, and perseverance set Richard Kline up for success.

Career Beginning

After graduating from Northwestern's MFA program in 1971, Richard wanted a stage to improve and learn from other actors.  He sought for the Lincoln Center Repertory Company, a sanctuary for classically educated actors.  What a delight to play on a stage that has hosted Laurence Olivier and Jessica Tandy!

This Lincoln Center Repertory Company apprenticeship was tough.  Richard played tough roles in Shakespearean tragedies and current dramas.  Learning from experienced actors would have been useful.  He would have noticed their stage presence, audience connection, and character-defining subtleties.  This frequent exposure to greatness would have improved his talents and instilled the discipline needed for a successful theatrical career.

However, Richard's ambitions went beyond one company.  He performed in regional theater outside Lincoln Center.  This exposure to numerous theaters and directors expanded his role repertoire.  Imagine him playing a complex role in Georges Simenon's "Chemin de Fer" (French for "Railway") at Chicago's Goodman Theatre.  Or enthralling audiences in Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman," about Willy Loman's desperation and disappointment.

These numerous parts showed Richard's versatility and refined his ability to play several characters.  They gave him the chance to try out accents, gestures, and emotions, enhancing his acting skills.

Interestingly, Richard's classical background didn't confine him to serious roles.  He shocked audiences with his Broadway debut in "City of Angels." 18 years after his professional debut.  This musical theater performance showed his singing and dancing skills outside of drama.

Early stage work was about developing a resume and preparing Richard for a successful and versatile acting career. His training at the Lincoln Center Repertory Company and in regional theater gave him the confidence and depth to play any character. Early dedication to his craft propelled him to national recognition.

Richard Kline Movies and TV Shows

Richard Kline's theatrical experience was solid, but television propelled him to fame. In 1976, he played Larry Dallas, the charmingly irritating neighbor on the hit sitcom "Three's Company."

Larry Dallas wasn't your typical sitcom neighbor.  Imagine a fast-talking used car salesman with a flashy attitude, questionable comb-over, and many get-rich-quick schemes.  Kline's performance was legendary.  He perfectly intoned "Now, now, now" and pursued the female roommates throughout the show.  Larry Dallas had a mailbox outside the show's fictional apartment complex due to his fame.

The popularity of "Three's Company" made Richard Kline famous.  The show's syndication and loyal fans are a testament to Kline and his co-stars' humorous chemistry.  Audiences liked Kline's charm, not simply his catchphrases and slapstick humor. He captured the persona well by being the charming rogue one minute and the comic annoyance the next.

Richard Kline has multiple talents.  After "Three's Company," he showed his flexibility in other TV shows.  He played Larry Dallas in spin-offs including "The Ropers" and "Three's a Crowd," reviving the character with new storylines and settings.

He went past Larry Dallas.  "It's a Living" cast him as a flamboyant talent agent, a far cry from "Three's Company".  Even on game shows like "Hollywood Squares," his quick humor and ability to connect with audiences translated well to live television.

Kline's TV credits go beyond sitcoms.  He has guest-starred in many sitcoms, from "Cheers" to "Hot in Cleveland."  This desire to try new genres reinforced his status as a TV veteran and versatile performer.

Although television is his specialty, Richard Kline has appeared on film.  "Beverly Hills Ninja" and "Jack and Jill" show his comedic chops on film.  He generally plays supporting roles, providing humor and experience to films.

Richard Kline's television career shows his flexibility, comedic timing, and determination. His legendary comedy characters and outstanding guest appearances have captivated viewers worldwide.

Social Media

In today's fast-paced world, Richard Kline's social media approaches are refreshing. Kline uses Twitter sparingly, unlike several of his peers.

He occasionally discusses his life and career. Imagine surfing through Twitter and seeing Richard Kline share a fan's remark about a favorite "Three's Company" episode or a funny acting observation. While rare, these snippets reveal his personality and allow fans to connect with him beyond his personas.

This crafted internet presence is charming. It shows his purposeful choice to separate his public and private lives. Perhaps he prefers to let his work speak for itself, and his characters connect with audiences.

His sporadic social media activity is intentional. He can thank fans for their support. He connects with his fans by saying "thank you" or retweeting nice reviews.

In conclusion, Richard Kline's social media strategy reflects his career. His measured, deliberate, and careful approach lets him engage with fans in privacy.  This well-designed internet presence compliments his work, making people ready for his next effort.

Richard Kline Net Worth

Richard Kline's $4 million net worth displays his hard work and dedication.  His lengthy stint on the hit sitcom "Three's Company." contributed to his wealth.  Success in syndication may lead to recurring royalties, ensuring financial security for years.

Beyond "Three's Company," Richard's other sitcoms, game shows, and guest-starring parts would have helped his finances.  Although these assignments didn't match "Three's Company" wages, they would have steadily increased his net worth over his career.

Remember that net worth estimations are estimates.  Richard's spending, investments, and real estate are private.  However, his lengthy and successful profession has given him financial security to pursue his passion for performing.

Personal Life & Philanthropy

Richard Kline keeps his personal life private. He married Beverley Osgoode in 2002 after three previous marriages. They live away from the cameras, but he has a son, Colby Kline, from a former marriage. Despite limited information, his experiences can suggest altruistic work. He may help veterans' groups after serving in Vietnam. Given his lifelong passion to performing, he may promote youth arts education.

Richard Kline's philanthropy is secret, but his background implies he prioritizes community, service, and the arts. Even though the details are unknown, his humanitarian work may represent these values.

Legacy

Richard Kline's comedy legacy is diverse and brilliant. Known for his role as Larry Dallas in "Three's Company," his career goes beyond that flamboyant persona. Kline's portrayal of Larry Dallas cements his catchphrases and charm in pop culture. To confine his legacy to this function would be to ignore his diversity.

Richard Kline has regularly charmed audiences for decades. From Lincoln Center Repertory Company to "Beverly Hills Ninja," he has captivated audiences in varied venues.  His legendary comedy roles and guest appearances on "Cheers" and "Hot in Cleveland." showcase his comedic timing. Every performance has left audiences in stitches with his physical humor and intelligence.

Richard Kline's legacy isn't just his characters; it's also his drive and passion.  His desire to work in theater, television, and cinema shows his dedication to his art. From classical training at Northwestern to different job experiences, he has constantly improved his skills.

Finally, Richard Kline's legacy shows the power of comedy and dedication.  He has left an unmistakable impression on television and shown his adaptability across media.  Richard Kline's legacy will entertain future generations, whether it's Larry Dallas's fame or his humorous range.

Conclusion

Richard Kline's story involves perseverance and comedy brilliance. His passion to the craft shined from his early theater days to his TV stardom. His seamless movement between live theater and television and movies solidified his reputation as a versatile entertainer.

Richard Kline's legacy goes beyond Larry Dallas, who will always be famous. He has made a career of delighting audiences for decades. Performance still drives him in his late 70s. Humor, commitment, and a lifelong passion of the performing arts define Richard Kline's legacy.