Actor Alan Rachins: A Life in Television and Beyond

Alan Rachins, known for his roles in L. A. Law and Dharma & Greg, passed away at 82. He was married to actress Joanna Frank, who also appeared on L. A. Law. The couple met in an acting class and shared the screen in several projects. Before his TV fame, Rachins had a unique start in show business. He was part of the original cast of Oh! Calcutta, a musical revue where he performed nude. This experience was often a topic of conversation, with people recognizing him more with his clothes on. Rachins' big break came when his brother-in-law, Steven Bochco, cast him in L. A. Law. The role of Douglas Brackman Jr. was initially different but evolved into a more colorful character. Rachins appeared in nearly all episodes of the show and received Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. He later played the role of Larry Finkelstein in Dharma & Greg, a character very different from his L. A. Law persona. Born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Rachins grew up in Boston. He studied acting in New York and made his Broadway debut in 1967. His career spanned various roles, from a director in Showgirls to appearances in films like Heart Condition and North. Rachins also had a recurring role on TNT's Rizzoli & Isles.