Adam Rich, an American actor, passed away on January 7, 2023, at the age of 54. At the time of his death, his net worth was $500 thousand. Rich was best known for his role as Nicholas Bradford on the television series, “Eight Is Enough.” His iconic pageboy haircut on the show became popular among parents during that era.
Despite the conclusion of “Eight Is Enough,” Rich continued his acting career with guest appearances on various shows. He also took on lead roles on the action series “Code Red” and the animated series “Dungeons & Dragons.”
Adam Rich was born on October 12, 1968, in New York City to Jewish parents Rob and Francine. He was raised in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles with his younger brother and briefly lived in Florida. Rich was involved in several sports, including football, baseball, swimming, and skateboarding. He also drew and took some acting lessons. At 17, Rich dropped out of high school.
Adam Rich made his television debut in 1976 on “The Six Million Dollar Man,” a science-fiction action series.
The following year, he appeared in the television film “The City,” which starred Robert Forster, Ward Costello, and Don Johnson.
In 1977, Rich gained popularity for his portrayal of Nicholas Bradford, the youngest of eight siblings, on the ABC series “Eight is Enough.” His co-stars included Dick Van Patten, Diana Hyland, Grant Goodeve, Lani O’Grady, Laurie Walters, Susan Richardson, Dianne Kay, and Willie Aames. The young actor became known for his pageboy haircut, which inspired parents across the country to style their own sons’ hair in a similar fashion. Rich’s charming on-screen persona earned him the nickname “America’s little brother.” Despite its initial success, “Eight is Enough” was cancelled after five seasons and 112 episodes due to declining ratings. The show was later revived for two television reunion movies on NBC: “Eight is Enough: A Family Reunion” in 1987 and “An Eight is Enough Wedding” in 1989.
During his time on “Eight is Enough,” Adam Rich also made guest appearances on shows like “Fantasy Island,” “The Love Boat,” and “CHiPs.” He even voiced the character Tukiki in the Canadian animated TV special “Tukiki and His Search for a Merry Christmas.” Rich’s only major role in the 80s was on the animated series “Dungeons & Dragons,” where he voiced Presto, the Magician. He also made appearances on shows like “Gun Shy,” “St. Elsewhere,” “Small Wonder,” and “Silver Spoons.”
After “Eight is Enough” ended, Rich played Danny Blake on the ABC action series “Code Red” for one season. He mostly stopped acting after the 80s, with his final role being a cameo in the 2003 comedy film “Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star,” alongside other former child stars.
As an adult, Adam Rich faced numerous challenges, including substance use and legal trouble. In 1989, he almost died from an overdose of valium. He was later charged with attempted burglary of a pharmacy and arrested for driving while intoxicated. Despite these setbacks, Rich sought help and spent time in drug rehabilitation on at least three separate occasions.
On January 7, 2023, Rich passed away at his home in Los Angeles at the age of 54. The cause of his death was not disclosed.
ncG1vNJzZmiopaG9ta3SraCcZpOkunCtw5qkZqqZmLVuusStZLCnoqm1cA%3D%3D