Next person biography:
Robert Ridgely was born Robert Ritterbusch on December 24, 1931, in New Jersey. He began his career as a cabaret entertainer and later recorded 45 RPM singles for Decca Records under various names. Ridgely transitioned to television acting in the early 1960s, making guest appearances on shows such as Surfside 6, Sea Hunt, and Maverick.
He had a recurring role as Lt. Frank Kimbro on the short-lived series The Gallant Men and made his film debut in FBI Code 98. Ridgely was often cast as sleazy characters, including unctuous emcees and announcers.
He worked with director Mel Brooks on four comedies: Blazing Saddles, High Anxiety, Life Stinks, and Robin Hood: Men in Tights. Ridgely also appeared in several films directed by Jonathan Demme, including Melvin and Howard, where he played the memorable role of smarmy game show host Wally "Mr. Love" Williams.
In addition to his live-action work, Ridgely lent his voice to numerous animated TV programs and cartoon features. He voiced characters such as Tarzan, Flash Gordon, and the Peculiar Purple Pieman of Porcupine Peak.
Ridgely had guest spots on various TV shows, including Designing Women, Newhart, Night Court, Hunter, The Incredible Hulk, WKRP in Cincinnati, Kung Fu, and Get Smart. He also did voice-over work for numerous TV commercials.
In his final film role, Ridgely gave a robust performance as jolly porno producer Colonel James in Boogie Nights. He passed away at the age of 65 on February 8, 1997, in Toluca Lake, California, due to cancer.
