Richard Moll, American actor

Charles Richard Moll (born January 13, 1943) is an American actor widely recognized for his imposing stature, distinctive bald head, and exceptionally deep, resonant voice. His versatile career spans both live-action performances and an extensive portfolio as a voice actor, where his unique vocal qualities frequently brought to life formidable characters.

The Iconic Role of "Bull" Shannon in Night Court

Moll is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Aristotle Nostradamus "Bull" Shannon, the towering yet gentle bailiff on the popular NBC sitcom Night Court. This role, which he inhabited from the show's premiere in 1984 until its conclusion in 1992, made him a household name. Bull Shannon was more than just a security presence; he was a beloved character known for his unwavering loyalty, innocent demeanor, and occasional profound insights, often serving as the moral compass or comedic foil within the eccentric ensemble of the Manhattan Municipal Court. His bald head and towering 6-foot-8-inch frame contributed significantly to the character's memorable visual identity, solidifying his place as one of television's most iconic supporting figures.

A Distinctive Voice: Moll's Extensive Voice Acting Career

Beyond his live-action success, Charles Richard Moll carved out a highly prolific career as a voice actor. His powerful basso profundo voice was ideally suited for portraying authoritative, imposing, or often villainous characters in a wide array of animated series, films, and video games. His distinctive timbre allowed him to convey both menace and gravitas, making him a go-to choice for creators seeking a truly unique vocal presence.

Notable Voice Roles in Animation and Video Games

Among his most celebrated voice roles is that of Two-Face, the complex and conflicted Gotham City villain, in the critically acclaimed Batman: The Animated Series (1992-1995). Moll's performance brought a haunting intensity to the character, truly capturing the duality and torment of Harvey Dent's scarred alter-ego. He reprised this iconic role in Batman: The Brave and the Bold, further cementing his legacy within the DC animated universe.

His voice work extended far beyond Gotham, however. Moll lent his unique vocal talents to many other significant animated characters, including:

Moll's deep voice also made him a staple in video games, where he provided voices for various characters in titles such as Sacrifice and Dante's Inferno, further demonstrating his versatility and demand in the entertainment industry.

Beyond "Bull": Other Notable Appearances

While synonymous with his role on Night Court, Moll's career encompassed various other live-action projects. He notably appeared in the popular horror-comedy film House (1986) as the monstrous Big Ben, showcasing his ability to inhabit roles that capitalized on his imposing physical presence. He also had a memorable role in the family holiday film Jingle All the Way (1996), demonstrating his range across different genres. Charles Moll's enduring contributions to both television and voice acting underscore his significant impact on American entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Charles Richard Moll

What is Charles Richard Moll best known for?
Charles Richard Moll is most widely recognized for his role as Aristotle Nostradamus "Bull" Shannon, the bald, gentle giant bailiff on the popular NBC sitcom Night Court, which aired from 1984 to 1992.
What made Charles Moll's voice unique?
Charles Moll possessed a distinctively deep, resonant basso profundo voice. This unique vocal quality made him highly sought after in the animation and video game industries, particularly for portraying imposing, authoritative, or villainous characters.
What famous animated character did Charles Moll voice?
He famously lent his voice to the iconic Batman villain, Two-Face, in both Batman: The Animated Series and Batman: The Brave and the Bold, among many other animated roles.
Did Charles Moll only do voice work?
No, while he had an extensive voice acting career, Charles Moll also had a significant live-action career, with his most prominent role being Bull Shannon in Night Court. He also appeared in films like House (1986) and Jingle All the Way (1996).