Movies with Richard Gilliland

Richard Gilliland was a versatile character actor whose chameleon-like talents allowed him to disappear into a wide range of roles over his four-decade career. Though he may be best remembered as the lovably gruff JD Shackleford on the hit sitcom Designing Women, Gilliland's filmography reveals an actor equally at home in dramas, thrillers, and family-friendly fare. Whether playing a caring father in the 1997 sci-fi adventure Star Kid or a sinister cult leader in the 2002 horror Vampire Clan, Gilliland imbued each performance with a compelling authenticity. He was a master of subtle emotional shading, able to convey a character's inner turmoil with just a shift in his piercing gaze or a world-weary sigh. Gilliland's seamless transformations and captivating screen presence made him a dependable supporting player who elevated even the most modest of projects. While Designing Women remains his most iconic role, Gilliland's talents extended far beyond the confines of the sitcom format. In powerful dramas like 2014's Parts Per Billion, he delivered nuanced, understated work that showcased his remarkable range. Even in smaller parts, as in the 2003 Lifetime movie Audrey's Rain, Gilliland commanded the screen, leaving an indelible mark. His passing in 2021 was a profound loss for the industry, but Richard Gilliland's rich, varied body of work ensures that his legacy as a consummate character actor will endure.