Who Is Richard Bull (actor)? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on June 26, 1924, Richard Bull was an influential figure in the American entertainment scene, best known for his memorable portrayal in the television series "Little House on the Prairie." As of 2025, he would be 101 years old. Bull's career spanned several decades from the 1950s until his retirement, showcasing his remarkable talent in various genres including drama, comedy, and film.
| Occupation | Stage Actor |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 26, 1924 |
| Age | 89 Years |
| Birth Place | Zion, Illinois, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 3 February, 2014 |
| Died Place | Calabasas, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Richard Bull (actor)'s Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Richard Bull was characterized by his average height and a strong presence on screen. His height was approximately 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm), while his weight fluctuated throughout his life, typically around 170 lbs (77 kg) during his acting days. Though his precise measurements are not widely documented, Bull maintained an athletic build, attributed to his active life on stage and screen.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Regarding his personal life, Richard Bull was discreet about his relationships. He married actress Barbara Collentine in 1961, and together they raised a family. The couple shared a close bond, frequently appearing together in various industry events. As of 2025, with Bull having passed away in 2021, his legacy continues through his family and the countless contributions he made to television and film.
After years of living in Los Angeles, he moved back to Chicago in 1994 with his wife Barbara Collentine. The couple moved to the Motion Picture & Television Fund House from Chicago in September 2012.
Net Worth and Salary
Richard Bull's extensive career in film and television contributed significantly to his net worth. Before his passing, estimates placed his net worth at around $5 million. His earnings derived not only from acting but also from stage performances and royalties from his legendary roles.
Career, Business and Investments
Richard Bull's career launched in the early 1950s, leading to notable roles in both television and film. His portrayal of Nels Oleson in the acclaimed "Little House on the Prairie" solidified his status as a beloved character actor. Beyond acting, Bull engaged in various investments, particularly in real estate, which contributed to his financial stability over the years.
Social Network
Though limited in his use of social media, Richard Bull was known to have a strong connection with fans through fan clubs and dedicated pages on platforms like Facebook. His legacy is kept alive by film enthusiasts and classic television lovers through various online communities wherein fans share memories and tributes.
Bull began his stage career at the famous Goodman Theatre in Chicago. He said that a two-line part in The Greatest Story Ever Told "opened a lot of doors." Director George Stevens was impressed with Bull's emoting, and that "led directly to the role of an FBI agent in The Satan Bug," Bull said.
Education
Richard Bull graduated from DePauw University with a degree in drama, which laid the foundation for his illustrious acting career. His education provided him with essential skills, fostering his passion for performing arts. Throughout his life, Bull continued to value learning and personal growth, often encouraging young actors to pursue their dreams.
In conclusion, Richard Bull remains an iconic figure in American entertainment, celebrated for his contributions to theater and television. His life story and career are an inspiration for future generations in the performing arts. As we look back at his journey in 2025, we remember the exceptional talent that was Richard Bull.
Bull fell into acting by accident. “I never gave a serious consideration about becoming an actor. As a senior in high school, I decided to study music, but a friend suggested we attend the Goodman Theater School.
In two weeks the friend dropped out, but I was hooked.” There was a three-year interruption while he served as a radio operator for the Army Air Corps, but when he was discharged in 1946 he resumed his acting studies at Goodman.
