Man About the House and Robin's Nest star Richard O'Sullivan dies age 82
The sitcom star never fully recovered from a stroke 23 years agoRichard O’Sullivan, star of popular sitcom Man About the House, has died age 82.
The news was announced by the Life President of Royal Variety Giles Cooper, who credited Richard’s “effortless charm and impeccable comic timing”.
Richard had lived in a care home for the past 23 years and was surrounded by his family when he died.
Tributes have now begun pouring in for the much-loved actor, who also starred in Man About the House spin-off Robin’s Nest.
Man About the House’s Richard O’Sullivan dies age 82
Giles Cooper, Life-President of the Royal Variety, announced the sad news of Richard’s death in a heartfelt statement. It was confirmed the sitcom star died at Brinsworth House, the Royal Variety Charity’s care home, in west London.
Mr Cooper said: “Richard O’Sullivan was a master of effortless charm and impeccable comic timing, bringing pure warmth, wit, and unforgettable joy to millions of living rooms as a true giant of British television.
“He will be sorely missed by us all at the Royal Variety Charity.”
Richard’s son James O’Sullivan also shared his sentiments, adding that he will “miss him dearly”.
“My dad was as funny and charming in real life as he appeared on our TV screens over the years. Always kind spirited, good humoured, a doting grandfather and a wonderful dad – I will miss him dearly,” Richard said.
“Although much of his career happened before I was born, I was fortunate enough to be able to enjoy and witness his incredible talents on the countless re-runs of his shows that made him the respected and loved actor that he was.
“I would like to thank the incredible team at Brinsworth for their love, kindness and care over the last 23 years. They have been truly amazing and will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Richard’s TV career and stroke
Richard is best known for playing Robin Tripp in 70s sitcom Man About the House. His character shared a house with two women, Chrissy and Jo.
Richard continued with his portrayal of Robin in the show’s spin-off, Robin’s Nest. He starred alongside his girlfriend, then later wife, Tessa Wyatt in the sitcom. They share son James together.
The actor’s other roles include playing Dick Turpin in the ITV adventure series. He also starred in Doctor at Large, Doctor in Charge and Me and My Girl.
Richard retired from acting in the mid-90s. In 2003, he suffered a stroke and moved into Brinsworth House for retired actors and entertainment stars. Tragically, he never fully recovered.
Tributes have since poured in, with one fan writing on X: “Sad. Part of my growing up. RIP.”
Another added: “Sad news. Richard O’Sullivan brought a lot of warmth and humour to his roles over the years.” A third simply said: “Oh no. RIP.”
