Richard Herd

Richard Thomas Herd Jr., born on September 26, 1932, was a distinguished American actor whose career spanned several decades, from the 1970s to the 2010s. He became a familiar face in the television landscape, known for his versatile performances in numerous supporting, recurring, and guest roles. His contributions to the entertainment industry left a lasting impact, particularly within the science fiction community.

Herd gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of John, the Supreme Commander of the Visitors, in the iconic 1983 NBC miniseries 'V' and its 1984 sequel 'V: The Final Battle.' His commanding presence and ability to embody complex characters made him a sought-after actor for various roles. He also made notable appearances in popular series such as 'seaQuest DSV,' where he played Admiral William Noyce, and 'Star Trek: Voyager,' portraying Admiral Owen Paris, the father of helmsman Tom Paris.

In addition to his memorable television roles, Herd showcased his talent in the beloved sitcom 'Seinfeld' as Matt Wilhelm, George Costanza's boss. His versatility extended to guest appearances on 'Quantum Leap,' where he took on the roles of Captain Galaxy, a children's show host with time-travel aspirations, and a miner named Ziggy Ziganovich. Furthermore, he lent his voice to the character Father Elijah in the 'Dead Money' expansion for the popular video game 'Fallout: New Vegas.'

Throughout his career, Herd was a cherished figure at fan conventions, where he connected with audiences who admired his work in science fiction. His legacy as a talented actor continues to resonate with fans and colleagues alike, celebrating a career that spanned nearly half a century.