Though Larry Gelman is perhaps most recognized for his role in The Bob Newhart Show, his career actually spans a wide array of television appearances that go back decades. In fact, it all started as early as 1966 when Larry Gelman made an appearance on the classic series Mission: Impossible. That same year, he popped up in memorable roles across several popular shows—like I Dream of Jeannie and multiple episodes of The Monkees, not to mention a guest spot on the dramatic series Run For Your Life. Larry Gelman’s range as an actor really began to shine during this time, showcasing his adaptability across genres.
As the years went on, Larry Gelman continued building an impressive resume. Throughout the 1970s, he took on a recurring role in the sitcom adaptation of The Odd Couple, which helped open doors to even more notable parts. One of those was Dr. Bernie Tupperman on The Bob Newhart Show, a performance that truly cemented Larry Gelman’s place in TV comedy history. He also played Hubie Binder on the hit series Maude, further proving his comedic timing and depth. But it wasn’t just sitcoms—Larry Gelman also stepped into film, including a unique turn in the 1976 X-rated version of Alice in Wonderland, where he portrayed the White Rabbit under the name Jerry Spelman.
By the late ‘70s, Larry Gelman had become a familiar face on American television. He secured a recurring role on Eight Is Enough and delivered a standout single-episode performance on Barney Miller—a role that earned him an Emmy nomination in 1978. That kind of recognition was well-deserved, especially considering how consistently Larry Gelman brought energy and authenticity to every character he played.
Moving into the ‘80s and ‘90s, Larry Gelman remained active across the small screen, appearing in everything from crime dramas to lighthearted comedies. Whether playing a quirky doctor or a nervous witness, Larry Gelman always brought something special to the scene. Over the years, Larry Gelman has proven time and again that his talent transcends any single role or genre.
Now, when it comes to Larry Gelman’s filmography, things get a bit interesting. Larry Gelman actually shares a unique distinction—his highest rated movie is Dreamscape (1984), which many fans and critics alike have praised over the years. And oddly enough, the same title, Dreamscape (1984), also happens to be considered his lowest rated work, depending on who you ask. So, in a way, Larry Gelman’s career has this curious balance around one particular film. It’s fascinating how opinions can vary so widely on the same project. Larry Gelman definitely made an impact with that release, whether people loved it or were more critical of it. Overall, Larry Gelman remains a notable figure, with Dreamscape (1984) sitting right at the center of both his peak and most debated moment.