Richard Rust (July 13, 1938 – November 9, 1994) was an American actor of stage, television, and film. He is perhaps best remembered for his role in the cult classic horror film Homicidal as an ill-fated bellhop who is persuaded by a mysterious woman to marry her for a cash payment. Rust, with his intense eyes, was a familiar presence in many television guest roles and supporting parts in films of the 1960's.

Early years

Born in Boston, Rust attended a Massachusetts boarding school and the University of Miami, where he was an archery champion. After majoring in drama at Miami, he enhanced his skills at the Neighborhood Playhouse.

Stage

Rust first acted professionally in a 1951 production of The Milky Way at Southbury Playhouse in Connecticut.

Television

Rust appeared in The Rifleman, played Brice in the 1961 episode "Quiet Fear". He also acted in the "Perry Mason" episodes "The Case of the Startled Stallion" (1959) and "The Case of the Nervous Neighbor" (1964), and the "Gunsmoke" episode "Kangaroo" (1959). He also appeared in the "Lawman" series in 1959 in the episode "9:05 to North Platte". He played attorney Hank Tabor in the NBC series “Sam Benedict” (1962-63).

Death

Rust died in Los Angeles on November 9, 1994, at the age of 56.

Filmography