Rikard Wolff: Swedish actor and singer (1958–2017)
Swedish actor and singer Rikard Wolff (1958–2017) known for House of Angels, stage work at Dramaten and Göteborg Opera, recordings including "Pojken på månen", and the Swedish voice of Scar.
Jan Rikard Wolff (8 April 1958 – 17 November 2017) was a Swedish actor and singer whose expressive voice, theatrical intensity and distinctive musical interpretations made him a notable figure in Scandinavian culture. Born in the Farsta district of Stockholm, Wolff pursued work across film, theatre and recorded music and became widely recognized for both dramatic and musical performances.
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Career highlights
Wolff gained national attention through his film work, most famously appearing in House of Angels (Änglagård) and its two sequels. Equally at home on stage, he performed at Sweden’s Royal Dramatic Theatre (Dramaten) and the Göteborg Opera, taking on roles ranging from the existential in Waiting for Godot to the demanding choreography and ensemble work of A Chorus Line. His professional range encompassed classical theatre, contemporary drama and musical theatre.
- Film: House of Angels (and sequels) and other screen roles
- Theatre: notable productions at Dramaten and Göteborg Opera
- Voice work: provided the Swedish voice for Scar in The Lion King
Music and recordings
Alongside acting, Wolff built a parallel career as a recording artist. His albums blended chanson, cabaret and pop sensibilities; the title track "Pojken på månen" is among his best-known songs. He was also associated with French repertoire and often included continental song traditions in his concerts and recordings.
Recognition and public life
Wolff was openly gay and an outspoken presence in Swedish cultural life, remembered for his frankness and charisma in public interviews. In recognition of his work promoting French music and cultural exchange, he was made a Knight of the Legion of Honour. He also reached broad family audiences through dubbing and other voice projects for Swedish releases of international films.
Legacy and death
Rikard Wolff left a lasting imprint on Swedish film, stage and music through performances noted for their emotional clarity and theatrical commitment. He died in Stockholm on 17 November 2017 from emphysema at the age of 59. After his death, theatres, radio and music programs in Sweden paid tribute to his career and influence.
Further reading and sources
Related articles
Author
AlegsaOnline.com Rikard Wolff: Swedish actor and singer (1958–2017) Leandro Alegsa
URL: https://en.alegsaonline.com/art/82926
Sources
- sfi.se : "Rikard Wolff"
- aftonbladet.se : "Wolff blev pappa i söndags"
- dn.se : "Wolffs död – alldeles för tidigt och så bedrövligt sorgligt"
- sverigesradio.se : "'Swedish icon' Rikard Wolff dies"