Alan Rachins, a beloved actor recognized for his memorable roles on L.A. Law and Dharma & Greg, has passed away at the age of 82. His wife, Joanna Frank, confirmed the news, stating that he died early Saturday morning from heart failure at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
Rachins is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Douglas Brackman on the iconic NBC legal drama L.A. Law, which aired from 1986 to 1994. His outstanding performance earned him nominations for both a Golden Globe and an Emmy. In addition, he delighted audiences as Larry, the free-spirited father of Dharma, played by Jenna Elfman, on the ABC sitcom Dharma & Greg, which ran for five successful seasons from 1997 to 2002.
Beyond his work on television, Rachins appeared in several films, including Thunder Run (1986), North (1994), and the cult classic Showgirls (1995). His extensive television credits include guest spots on popular series such as The Golden Girls, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Stargate SG-1, and Rizzoli & Isles.
Born on October 3, 1942, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Rachins pursued his passion for acting in New York. He was part of the original Broadway casts of productions like After the Rain and Hadrian the Seventh. His career also included writing episodes for notable shows such as Hill Street Blues, Hart to Hart, and The Fall Guy, as well as directing an episode of the CBS procedural Paris, starring James Earl Jones.
Along with his wife, Rachins co-founded Allofit Productions, where they adapted books and original screenplays into films and television projects. He is survived by his wife, Joanna Frank, and their son, Robert.
Alan Rachins leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances that touched the hearts of many. His contributions to the entertainment industry will be fondly remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
