Alan Rachins, renowned for his character as the eccentric attorney Douglas Brackman Jr. on “L.A. Law,” passed away over the weekend, his wife revealed.
Alan Rachins, the gifted actor whose vibrant on-screen performances captivated audiences for decades, passed away on November 2 at age 82.
Alan Rachins and Joanna Frank at Spago in West Hollywood, California, on April 15, 1993 | Source: Getty Images
According to The Hollywood Reporter, his wife, actress Joanna Frank, said he passed away early that morning from heart failure at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
Rachins’ career spanned decades, beginning on Broadway with his debut in “After the Rain” in 1967. He soon gained widespread attention in the provocative musical revue “Oh! Calcutta,” setting the stage for a remarkable journey in TV and film.
Alan Rachins attends the ABC Summer Press Tour in Pasadena, California, on July 29, 1999 | Source: Getty Images
His TV career was defined by his memorable portrayal of Douglas Brackman Jr., the shrewd yet bumbling attorney on L.A. Law, a role he played for eight seasons, from 1986 to 1994.
Alan Rachins as Douglas Brackman, Jr.; Michael Tucker as Stuart Markowitz; Richard Dysart as Leland McKenzie; Jill Eikenberry as Ann Kelsey; Harry Hamlin as Michael Kuzak in the 1986 series “L.A. Law” | Source: Getty Images
Known for his eccentric personality, Brackman became a fan favorite on “L.A. Law,” earning Rachins an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 1988.
He also scored a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Series, Limited Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television.
Alan Rachins and his wife, Joanna Frank, attend the 40th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards party in West Hollywood, California, on August 28, 1988 | Source: Getty Images
Reflecting on his character’s evolution, he shared insights in a 1990 interview with The New York Times, and recalled Brackman’s initial portrayal in the pilot episode as a strict, frugal office manager, lacking vibrance or quirky traits.
Over time, he noted, the character grew from a limited role into one with “a lot more color and flamboyance.”
Alan Rachins portrays Douglas Brackman, Jr. on the 1986 series “L.A. Law” | Source: Getty Images
After “L.A. Law,” he showcased his versatility in the 1997 series “Dharma & Greg,” playing Larry Finkelstein, the free-spirited father of Jenna Elfman’s character.
Alan Rachins attends the NBC 75th Anniversary in New York City on May 6, 2002 | Source: Getty Images
Over the years, Rachins appeared in more than 70 TV shows and films, including “Young Sheldon,” Grey’s Anatomy,” and “General Hospital.” His movie credits included “Commencement,” “30 Nights,” and “Angels on Tap.”
Diane Ladd as Hortense and Alan Rachins as Vern in the 2017 series “Young Sheldon” | Source: Getty Images
Rachins’ journey to acting began as a quiet ambition during his teenage years. In an interview with The Cypress Online, he revealed that he first felt the pull toward acting in eighth grade, though he wasn’t sure if he had what it would take to pursue it.
Alan Rachins attends the 24th Annual People’s Choice Awards in Santa Monica, California, on January 11, 1998 | Source: Getty Images
“So it was something in the back of mind that I wanted to do,” he explained, comparing his dream to a childhood fantasy that might never materialize—like wanting to be a major league baseball player.
Initially, Rachins pursued a business degree at the Wharton School, but his passion for the arts ultimately led him to Hollywood.
Alan Rachins at the 70th Hollywood Christmas Parade on Hollywood Boulevard in California on November 25, 2001 | Source: Getty Images
High school became a pivotal time for Rachins, not only solidifying his passion for acting but also providing strong social bonds that would shape his character and confidence.
Alan Rachins at the 12th Annual Environmental Media Awards in Los Angeles, California, on November 20, 2002 | Source: Getty Images
He fondly recalled the spirited camaraderie with friends, mentioning ski trips, the Newport Jazz Festival, and camping near historic mansions. These experiences gave him a sense of belonging, purpose, and the courage to dream bigger.
Alan Rachins attends The Cystic Fibrosis 19th Annual Celebrity Tennis Tournament in Manhattan Beach, California, on October 24, 2004 | Source: Getty Images
Beyond the fun and friendship, Rachins found space in high school to explore his identity and set goals. “For me, I loved it because it’s where I developed a lot of these great friends and got the beginnings of a sense of self and had a sort of an extended family with these friends and took from that some energy to move forward,” he shared.
Alan Rachins at the Hollywood All-Star Game in Los Angeles, California, on August 17, 1991 | Source: Getty Images
Reflecting on those formative years, Rachins encouraged young people to invest in their aspirations and work diligently toward them. “If you focus on what it is you want to do, learn about it, ask questions about it, reach out to people to find more about it,” he advised.
Alan Rachins guest stars in the ABC series “Happy Endings” on April 27, 2010 | Source: Getty Images
He emphasized that ambition alone wasn’t enough; pursuing any dream required initiative and hard work. This sense of dedication and his willingness to embrace hard work would be themes he would carry through his varied and successful career in the arts.
Alan Rachins attends the world premiere of “Mystery Men” in Century City, California, on July 22, 1999 | Source: Getty Images
After an extensive acting career, Rachins joined the writing and directing programs at the American Film Institute (AFI) in Los Angeles in 1972. During this time, he interned with director Arthur Penn on the 1976 film “The Missouri Breaks.”
Alan Rachins at the Hollywood All Star Game in Los Angeles, California, on August 17, 1991 | Source: Getty Images
Additionally, Rachins wrote for TV shows such as “Hill Street Blues,” “Hart to Hart,” and “The Fall Guy.” He also directed an episode of “Paris,” starring the late actor James Earl Jones.
Alan Rachins at the 13th Annual People’s Choice Awards in Santa Monica, California on March 15, 1987 | Source: Getty Images
Rachins leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and a varied career that spanned television, film, and stage. Besides his wife, Frank, he is survived by their son, Robert.
