Richard Dimitri, “Johnny Dangerously” Actor Dies at Age 83
A sad development has occurred in the acting world. Actor Richard Dimitri passed away with his wife at his side on Thursday, December 18, “following a long struggle with heart and lung ailments,” as stated in his obituary. Described as a “writer, actor, art, and antiques dealer,” he transitioned to film after working in theatre in New York City. He was best known for his role in “Johnny Dangerously” as Roman. He wrote for several TV shows, to include comedy “House Calls,” and he was a singer.
Broadway Debut and Move to California
Born in 1942, Richard Dimitri was raised by a single mother in New York. He graduated from Yonkers High School. In 1962, Dimitri earned his diploma from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. The next year, he made his off-Broadway debut as Bashir in a revival of “The Immoralist,” then later scoring roles in Broadway productions like “Zorba,” “The Guide”, and “Lysistrata.”
Dimitri began teaching acting for two years at Queen’s College, The City University of New York, where he enjoyed mentoring students. Afterward, he secured a dual role as twins Bertram and Renaldo in Mel Brooks’ “When Things Were Rotten,” which prompted his move to Los Angeles in 1975.
Richard Dimitri Hits the Big and Small Screen
His film work included “Johnny Dangerously” (1984) opposite Michael Keaton, popularizing the term “cork soakers.” This sas probsnly his best known role. He worked on “Let It Ride” (1989) with Richard Dreyfuss, and Gene Wilder’s “The World’s Greatest Lover” (1977). Dimitri additionally appeared in various television series such as “Hawaii Five-O,” “Seventh Avenue,” “The Tracey Ullman Show,” “Starsky & Hutch,” “Welcome Back, Kotter,” “Brown Show,” and “Hearts Afire,” along with live stand up performances at the illustrious Comedy Store in L.A., among other comedy venues in the city.
Amid his career, Richard Dimitri, who possessed “an operatic tenor voice,” received an exciting opportunity to audition for the Vienna State Opera. After a grueling decision, he opted to further pursue acting. He worked behind the scenes as well. Dimitri later performed as a stunt actor in the miniseries “Dice.”
Dimitri’s Career as a Writer
Dimitri also harbored a passion for writing for television. In 1993, he co-created the Fox sitcom “Daddy Dearest,” starring comedic legends Richard Lewis and Don Rickles. His other writing credits include the CBS comedy “House Calls,” featuring Wayne Rogers and Lynn Redgrave, along with NBC’s comedy, “Going Bananas,” starring James Avery and Bill Saluga.
An Art Collector Later in Life
Richard Dimitri exited the entertainment scene in 1998 due to “serious chronic health issues.” This made it difficult for him to perform. He subsequently embraced his interest in art and antiques, opening a gallery called Engs-Dimitri Works of Art, in West Hollywood on La Cienega Blvd., with his wife, Christianne Engs. The gallery sold an infamous art piece by John Deare to the Getty Museum.
“Throughout his life, Richard Dimitri impacted numerous lives with his talent, sharp humor, unique perspective, honesty, and intellect,” his obituary concludes. “Yet, it was his role as a devoted father and husband, providing warmth and security to his family, that brought him the greatest joy and fulfillment.”
Dimitri is survived by his wife of 26 years, Christianne. He was predeceased by his son, John Dimitri, who sadly passed away at age 19 in 2017 from a rare congenital heart defect known as Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. This is detailed by The John Dimitri Research Foundation for Congenital Heart Disease, which was established in his memory. The family wishes for any memorial donations be directed to the aforementioned foundation. May he rest in peace.
