Ralph Tabakin (September 22, 1921 – May 13, 2001) was an American actor.
Career In his acting career, Tabakin is most associated with the work of Barry Levinson, as he appeared in fifteen of Levinson's films from Diner onward. His appearance in Diner began after a visit to the set where he impressed Levinson. Considered a lucky charm of Levinson, Tabakin is perhaps best known for playing medical examiner Dr. Scheiner on the Levinson-produced TV series Homicide: Life on the Street, a recurring character from the first episode through all seven seasons and the follow-up Homicide: The Movie.
Personal life Born in San Antonio, Texas, he was the middle child in a family of five. They would also live in New Orleans, Louisiana, before moving and settling in Richmond, Virginia. He was a World War II veteran, being decorated with five Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars. He also worked as a Federal Aviation Administration engineer for several years. He died in 2001 due to heart disease. He is buried in Judean Memorial Gardens in Olney, Maryland.
Filmography Year Title Role Notes1982 Diner TV Customer 1984 The Natural Al's Customer 1985 Young Sherlock Holmes Policeman in Shop Window 1987 Tin Men Mr. Hudson 1987 Good Morning, Vietnam Chaplain Noel 1988 Rain Man Shift Boss with Dustin Hoffman1990 Avalon Principal Dunn 1991 Bugsy Elevator Operator 1992 Toys Fred 1994 Jimmy Hollywood Fan in Hospital 1994 Disclosure Elevator Attendant 1996 Sleepers Warden with Dustin Hoffman1997 Wag the Dog Southern Man with Dustin Hoffman1998 Sphere O.S.S.A. Official with Dustin Hoffman1999 Liberty Heights Phil, Spotlight Man at the Gaitey
See also Late bloomer
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