Richard Herd – A Face That Told a Thousand Stories

Richard Herd – A Face That Told a Thousand Stories (Rory Lewis Photographer 2016)

In 2016, I had the privilege of photographing the incomparable Richard Herd, an actor whose presence left an unmistakable mark on film, television, and the generations of audiences who admired him. Best known for roles in T.J. Hooker, V, Seinfeld, Star Trek, and F.I.S.T., Richard was one of Hollywood’s most recognisable and accomplished character actors—an artist with a face carved by experience, wisdom, and unfiltered humanity.

A Session Filled With Character

Richard invited me into his home for our portrait sitting, a gesture that immediately set the tone for a deeply personal and memorable session. The moment I stepped inside, I discovered that I was not only meeting a celebrated actor, but also a gifted painter. Before we even lifted the camera, Richard took me on a tour of his artwork—an impressive collection filled with texture, emotion, and a stunning portrait of Rod Steiger that revealed an extraordinary artistic sensitivity.

Richard Herd – A Face That Told a Thousand Stories (Rory Lewis Photographer 2016)

When it came time to photograph him, Richard was everything a portraitist hopes for. His expressions flowed effortlessly, each one rooted in decades of experience. His face held the history of a thousand stories: the intensity of his craft, the humour of his personality, and the quiet resilience of a life fully lived.

At one point during the session, I asked him for something more forceful—a look of fury. Without missing a beat, he leaned forward and jokingly swore at me with theatrical gusto. The result was one of the most powerful and memorable portraits I have ever created.

A Legacy Beyond the Screen

Richard Herd passed away on May 26, 2020, at the age of 87 in Los Angeles. His body of work, spanning more than five decades, remains a testament to his versatility, dedication, and relentless curiosity as an artist.

Having the opportunity to photograph Richard during this extraordinary chapter of my career—when Sasha and I travelled frequently to Los Angeles to capture many of the actors who shaped my childhood—was a privilege I will always treasure.

This portrait sitting stands as a reminder of Richard’s brilliance, warmth, and artistic soul… a moment frozen in time, honouring a man whose presence was truly unforgettable.