Richard Riehle, Office Space’s Tom Smykowski, Dead at 78

Richard Riehle, the actor famous for his role as Tom Smykowski in the 1999 film "Office Space," has passed away at the age of 78, according to TMZ. The cause of death was natural causes, and he was found deceased on October 15th in Los Angeles.

Born on May 12, 1948, in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, Riehle grew up in a family of service professionals. His mother, Mary Margaret Walsh, was a nurse, and his father, Herbert John Riehle, worked as an assistant postmaster. Riehle completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Notre Dame, earning a degree in speech and drama, graduating cum laude in 1970.

During his time at Notre Dame, he became deeply involved in the university's theater program, participating in student productions, serving as a stage manager, and contributing to set and costume design.

After graduating, Riehle pursued further theatrical training in Austria and at the John Fernald Academy of Dramatic Art in Rochester, Michigan. He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Tom Smykowski, the anxious office worker in Mike Judge's workplace comedy "Office Space." The character resonated with audiences and garnered a devoted fan base. Apart from his film career, Riehle maintained an extensive theater background, having worked in over 400 films and television shows alongside a robust theater career.

Riehle's filmography includes notable works such as "Glory," "Fried Green Tomatoes," "The Fugitive," "Casino," "Executive Decision," "Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo," "Wedding Crashers," and "Bridesmaids." On television, he appeared in the sitcom "Grounded for Life" as Walt Finnerty and made guest appearances on popular series like "The West Wing," "ER," "NCIS," "Modern Family," and "Star Trek: The Next Generation."

Riehle is survived by his wife, Jane Latham, and their four children.