The late Richard Stahl was best known for his role in the 70's hit sitcom Laverne and Shirley. He was also known for his roles in well-known movies such as 1977's Mel Brooks spoof High Anxiety and 1979's Five Easy Pieces.

However, in honor of accomplished actor who recently passed away at the age of 79, I would like to go over some of his lesser known artistic roles:

-Richard Stahl started his career as a magician. He left his childhood home in Detroit as a 15-year-old and headed to California to perform his magic act.

-Stahl and his wife, Kathryn Ish, were both off broadway theatre actors in the late 50's.

-In the 60's, both Stahl and his wife were members of a San Francisco improv comedy group named The Committee.

-Stahl played bit roles in a handful of very popular sitcoms including The Facts of Life, Family Ties, Who's the Boss, Newhart, Night Court, and Married with Children.

-Stahl also had small roles in several other well-kown motion pictures including L.A. Story, The American President, and Mississippi Burning.

So although Richard Stahl will always be remembered for his contributions to Laverne and Shirley, we should all remember that his 40+ year career stretched far beyond the bounds of TV Land.

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