Richard Kline is an American actor and television director best known for playing Larry Dallas on the sitcom Three’s Company. This profile summarizes his verified career milestones, notable screen credits, and professional roles, with factual context drawn from authoritative sources. Below are key dates and projects that define his public work and ongoing recognition in television and film.
Early Life and Education
Richard Kline was born on June 29, 1944, in New York City, New York. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in theater from San Diego State University. His early training and move to Los Angeles laid the groundwork for his entry into televised sitcoms and multi-camera comedy direction.
Three’s Company and Breakthrough Role
Kline’s best-known role is Larry Dallas, the flamboyant neighbor and Jack Tripper’s friend on Three’s Company (1977–1984). The show’s broad comedy and ensemble cast made the character a staple of 1970s and 1980s television. His timing and physical humor contributed to the series’ long run and syndication success.
Key Projects During Three’s Company
- Regular role on Three’s Company (1977–1984), appearing in more than 100 episodes
- Crossover appearances on Three’s a Crowd and related specials
- Early directorial work on sitcom sets, building skills behind the camera
Post–Three’s Company Television Work
After Three’s Company, Kline continued acting in television series and made-for-TV movies, while also directing episodes of popular sitcoms. His directing portfolio helped extend his influence beyond acting and kept him active in multi-camera comedy through the decades.
Notable Directing Credits
- Directed episodes of Full House, Family Matters, and Step by Step
- Worked as a television stage manager and associate director early in his career
- Contributed to live audience formats and laugh track timing as part of TV production workflows
Film Appearances
In feature films, Kline appeared in supporting roles, often in comedies that matched his television style. These performances reinforced his typecast appeal while demonstrating range within the comedy genre.
| Title | Year | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scrooged | 1988 | Stage Manager | Holiday comedy with Bill Murray |
| My Stepmother Is an Alien | 1988 | TV Comic | Sci-fi family comedy |
| Problem Child | 1990 | Mr. Peabody | Family comedy |
| Problem Child 2 | 1991 | Mr. Peabody | Sequel continuation |
| Off Beat | 1991 | Cab Driver | Cameo in indie comedy |
Net Worth and Earnings Overview
As of the most recent verifiable estimates, Richard Kline’s net worth falls within a moderate range for character actors of his generation. Earnings derive from acting residuals, directing royalties, and occasional convention appearances. Industry norms for long-running sitcom cast and directors inform these figures.
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context and Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Net Worth | $6 million – $8 million | Celebrity net-worth aggregators and industry reporting |
| Annual Income (peak) | Likely high during Three’s Company run (late 1970s–early 1980s) | Residuals and syndication backend typical for cast members |
| Residuals and Royalties | Continues from reruns and streaming | Ongoing income from legacy TV distribution |
Personal Life and Public Presence
Kline maintains a private personal life, with limited public disclosures about family and relationships. He has participated in Three’s Company cast reunions and interviews, reflecting on changes in television comedy and audience expectations over time.
Legacy and Industry Influence
As Larry Dallas, Kline helped define the comedic archetype of the charming, slightly self-interested neighbor in ensemble casts. His subsequent directing work supported the golden age of multi-camera sitcoms, influencing staging, audience rhythm, and comedic timing standards still used today.
Quick Comparison: Actor vs Director Contributions
- Actor: Recognized for memorable supporting performances; niche defined by character consistency
- Director: Contributed to many top-rated sitcoms; shaped on-set workflows for live-audience formats
- Combined impact: Extended career across four decades in both in front of and behind the camera
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Richard Kline best known for? He is best known for playing Larry Dallas on Three’s Company.
- Does Richard Kline still earn from residuals? Yes, he continues to earn residuals and royalties from syndication and streaming of Three’s Company.
- Has Richard Kline worked as a director? Yes, he has directed episodes of several mainstream sitcoms, including Full House and Family Matters.
- What is Richard Kline’s estimated net worth? Industry estimates place his net worth roughly between $6 million and $8 million.
- Is Richard Kline still active in entertainment? He remains involved in occasional projects, conventions, and interviews, maintaining a presence in comedy and television discussions.
Conclusion
Richard Kline’s career reflects sustained relevance in both acting and directing within television comedy. Verified credits, long-running syndication, and consistent convention engagement support his continued visibility. This verified profile is designed to remain useful as reference information about his work and stature in entertainment.