Eric Richard

Eric Richard (born 27 June 1940) is an English actor. He is widely recognized for his long-standing role as Sergeant Bob Cryer in the popular ITV police drama series The Bill, a character he portrayed from the show's premiere in 1984 until 2001, and in subsequent guest appearances.

Early Life and Career

Born in the United Kingdom, Eric Richard embarked on his acting career with various roles in television and film. Prior to gaining widespread fame, he appeared in several television programmes, including Minder and Juliet Bravo, establishing himself as a versatile character actor.

The Bill

Richard's most iconic and enduring role was that of Sergeant Bob Cryer. As one of the original cast members of The Bill, he became a central figure at Sun Hill police station. His character, initially a constable, rose through the ranks to sergeant, providing a steadfast and often world-weary presence within the precinct. Cryer's storylines frequently explored the challenging realities of police work, personal dilemmas, and the strong camaraderie among the officers. He departed from the regular cast in 2001 following a storyline in which his character was shot, but returned for significant events and special episodes in the years that followed, cementing his status as one of the show's most beloved and recognizable characters.

Other Works

Beyond his extensive tenure on The Bill, Eric Richard has maintained an active career in television and film. His other notable appearances include roles in long-running British dramas such as EastEnders, Casualty, and Doctors. He also featured in Christopher Nolan's acclaimed 2017 war film Dunkirk. Additionally, Richard has engaged in stage work throughout his career.