Richard Riehle, Prolific Actor Who Appeared in ‘Office Space,’ Dies at 78

Richard Riehle, a prolific character actor who portrayed Tom Smykowski, the product manager with “people skills” in Mike Judge’s cult classic, “Office Space,” has died. He was 78. Riehle died Thursday of natural causes in Los Angeles, his representatives from Artists & Representatives and Wright Entertainment Inc. confirmed Monday to The Times. No additional details were provided. “A remarkable actor whose career in theater, film, and television spanned nearly five decades and more than 400 projects, Richard leaves behind an extraordinary legacy,” read the joint statement from his talent agency and management company. “Beyond his immense talent, he will be remembered for his genuine goodness, boundless kindness, and unwavering generosity, particularly toward emerging actors and filmmakers, whom he encouraged and supported at every opportunity. “Our industry has lost an exceptional talent, and our community has lost a truly wonderful man,” it continued. In the 1999 corporate comedy “Office Space,” Riehle portrayed Tom, a middle manager who is laid off by the company before being seriously injured in a hit-and-run accident and winning a large settlement.

A fashion editor in London during the Swinging Sixties, she courted controversy by promoting skimpy new styles — and the undergarments they required.

Staff Writer Oct. 19, 2026 11:17 AM PT A decorated Air Force service member of 15 years died after a rappelling accident that took place during a salute to the military Saturday before the Navy-University of Texas at San Antonio game at the Alamodome. U. S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson was a Tactical Air Control Party instructor assigned to the 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2, Joint Base San Antonio, according to a news release by Nellis Air Force Base Public Affairs. “This tragedy is felt deeply across the 57th Wing,” U. S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Scott C. Mills, 57th Wing commander, said in the release. “Tech. Sgt. Patterson and his service mattered immensely to our wing, and to the family, friends, and teammates who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside him. Our team is now focused on standing beside Ian’s family, loved ones, and fellow Airmen as we navigate this profound loss together.”Pattersonreceived several medals for his service and achievements, according to the Nellis Air Force Base Public Affairs, including the Air and Space Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters.

Reportedly the wealthiest man in the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, Gilbert Bigio was sanctioned for ties to criminal gangs. He was 91.

He rose from poverty in Puerto Rico to win world boxing championships in three weight classes. He defended his titles with a record 17 straight KOs.

An actor, producer and director, he also managed several theater companies. But he was best known for his performances in works by Samuel Beckett.