Richard O’Sullivan, the actor best known for his role as Robin Tripp in the hit British sitcom Man About the House, has died at the age of 82. His career began in childhood, making his screen debut at just seven years old, before he grew into a prominent television figure during the 1970s and 1980s.
O’Sullivan portrayed youthful characters that embodied the social and sexual liberties emerging from the previous decade. Between 1972 and 1981, he starred in over 100 episodes of prime-time ITV comedies, playing charmingly mischievous men in their twenties and thirties.
His early success included playing Dr Lawrence Bingham in the hospital series Doctor in Charge, where his playful demeanor helped establish his career. This led to his defining role as Robin Tripp in Man About the House, which aired in the mid-1970s, followed by the spin-off series Robin’s Nest a few years later. The character made him a popular sex symbol of the era, beloved by both audiences and the tabloid press.
I loved Man About the House! Richard was adorable as Robin. So sad to hear he passed away at 82.
100 episodes across two shows? That’s a serious volume of television from the 70s and 80s. He was everywhere.
Wait, he started acting at age seven? That’s incredibly young to break into the industry back then.
A sex symbol in the 70s? I’m not buying that he looked like much more than a cheeky lad to me.
RIP Richard O’Sullivan. His charm was undeniable. Hope his family finds comfort during this difficult time.