Jack Riley
John Albert Riley Jr. (December 30, 1935 – August 19, 2016) was a distinguished American actor, comedian, and writer, celebrated for his memorable roles in television and animation. He is best known for his portrayal of Elliot Carlin, a neurotic patient on *The Bob Newhart Show,* which aired from 1972 to 1978, and for lending his voice to Stu Pickles, the father in the beloved animated series *Rugrats*.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Riley was the son of Agnes C. Riley and John Albert Riley. He completed his education at Saint Ignatius High School and John Carroll University before serving in the U.S. Army. Following his military service, he became a prominent radio personality alongside his partner Jeff Baxter on *The Baxter & Riley Show,* where they showcased a mix of music and comedic sketches.
Riley's television career took off in the 1960s with roles in shows like *Occasional Wife.* He went on to feature in numerous iconic series, including *M*A*S*H,* *Barney Miller,* and *The Mary Tyler Moore Show.* His collaborations with Mel Brooks in films like *High Anxiety* and *History of the World: Part I* further solidified his comedic legacy.
In the 1990s, Riley's voice work gained recognition as he voiced Stu Pickles in the *Rugrats* franchise, including its spin-off *All Grown Up!* and multiple films. He continued to make guest appearances on popular sitcoms such as *Friends* and *That '70s Show.* His final acting role was a cameo on *Saturday Night Live* in 2013, capping off a remarkable career that left an indelible mark on comedy.
Filmography
The Rugrats Movie
Theodore Rex
High Anxiety
Avenging Angel (2007)
Room 6
C.H.U.D. II: Bud the Chud
The Bank Shot
Finders Keepers
Frances
Attack of the Killer Tomatoes!
To Be or Not to Be (1983)
Rugrats Go Wild
Drop Dead Weird
Rugrats
The Bob Newhart Show