Richard O’Sullivan Death, Obituary: Beloved Man About the House Actor Dies at 82

The British television world is mourning the loss of Richard O’Sullivan, the much-loved actor best known for his memorable roles in Man About the House and Robin’s Nest. O’Sullivan passed away on September 4, 2026, at the age of 82, leaving behind a career that brought laughter and entertainment to generations of television viewers.

According to the Royal Variety Charity, O’Sullivan died peacefully surrounded by his close family at Brinsworth House in Twickenham, west London, where he had lived for the past 23 years. His death was announced by the charity, which described him as a legendary and much-loved British actor.

O’Sullivan became one of the most recognizable faces of British television during the 1970s after taking on the role of Robin Tripp in the popular sitcom Man About the House. The series, which began in 1973, followed the humorous lives of three young people sharing a London flat.

The success of the show led to the spin-off Robin’s Nest, in which O’Sullivan continued playing Robin Tripp. His character became so well known that the British sitcom also helped inspire the American television adaptation Three’s Company, with John Ritter later playing the corresponding character of Jack Tripper.

Beyond his best-known sitcom roles, O’Sullivan enjoyed a long and varied acting career. He played the title role in the television adventure series Dick Turpin and later appeared in Me and My Girl. His screen career had actually begun during childhood. He appeared in The Yellow Balloon as an eight-year-old and went on to work across film, television and theatre.

His career also included appearances in films such as The Young Ones, Wonderful Life and Cleopatra. His early work placed him alongside major stars and helped establish a career that would eventually span several decades.

Following his death, tributes have highlighted not only O’Sullivan’s talent but also his warmth and personality. His son, James O’Sullivan, remembered him as a funny, charming, kind-hearted and loving father and grandfather. The Royal Variety Charity also praised his comic timing and the joy he brought to millions of viewers.

Richard O’Sullivan’s death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in British television history. Though he is no longer with his family, friends and fans, his performances as Robin Tripp and his other memorable characters will continue to keep his legacy alive.

For the many viewers who grew up watching his sitcoms, O’Sullivan will be remembered as a familiar and much-loved presence on British television — an actor whose humor, charm and talent left an enduring impression.