Dwight Schultz
Dwight Schultz – Life, Career, and Memorable Quotes
Explore the life and career of Dwight Schultz (born November 24, 1947) — American actor known for The A-Team, Star Trek, voice acting, and more. Learn his biography, major roles, philosophy, and notable quotes.
Introduction
William Dwight Schultz (born November 24, 1947) is an American actor whose versatile career spans television, film, theater, and voice work. He is best known for his iconic roles as Captain “Howling Mad” Murdock in The A-Team and Lieutenant Reginald Barclay in the Star Trek franchise. Over decades, Schultz has also made a name for himself in animation, video games, and as a public personality with interests in politics and the paranormal.
His longevity and willingness to take on unconventional characters have made him a fan favorite and a widely respected character actor.
Early Life & Education
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Schultz was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on November 24, 1947.
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He is of German descent and was raised Roman Catholic.
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Schultz attended Calvert Hall College High School.
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He then went to Towson University in Maryland, where he was active in the theatre program, performing in plays such as Twelfth Night, Lear: A Rock Musical, Christopher Columbus, and more.
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Early on, he also became a member of the Baltimore Theater Ensemble, gaining hands-on stage experience.
These formative theatrical experiences helped build his craft and versatility before he transitioned more fully into screen acting.
Career and Major Roles
Breakthrough & Television Stardom
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Schultz’s career breakthrough came when he was cast as Captain “Howling Mad” Murdock on The A-Team, which aired from 1983 to 1987.
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Although producers initially considered writing out the character, fan response secured Murdock’s place as a regular.
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Concurrently, Schultz took on the role of Reginald Barclay, an awkward, socially anxious Starfleet engineer, in Star Trek: The Next Generation. He continued that role in Voyager and in the film Star Trek: First Contact.
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His portrayal of Barclay has become one of his most beloved roles among Star Trek fans.
Film, Voice Acting & Other Media
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On film, Schultz has appeared in projects like The Fan (1981) and Fat Man and Little Boy (1989) as J. Robert Oppenheimer.
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In voice acting and animation, his credits include:
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Dr. Animo in Ben 10
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Mung Daal in Chowder
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Vulture (Adrian Toomes) in some Marvel video games
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Eddie the Squirrel in CatDog
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Other voice roles in animation and video games over many years.
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Other Interests & Public Persona
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Schultz hosted a conservative talk radio/podcast called Howling Mad Radio.
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He has made guest hosting appearances on shows such as The Savage Nation, The Jerry Doyle Show, and Rusty Humphries Show.
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He has also posted political commentary and podcasts via his fansite.
Personality, Approach & Philosophy
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Schultz is known to be interested in conspiracy theories, UFOs, and government secrecy. His public statements and quotations often reflect this interest.
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He has joked and spoken about how Star Trek fits well with his interests:
“I’ve spent a lot of time researching the subject and government deception. So to be involved in Star Trek is perfect for me.”
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Schultz has said:
“Of course, I have Gene Roddenberry to thank for the creation of Barclay.”
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His worldview is reflected in lines like:
“Governments are moved by numbers, and the greater the number of people who admit that they believe, the greater the likelihood that the secret — if there is one being kept — will be revealed.”
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He has also talked about balance: choosing parts that can resonate, being authentic, and engaging with fans.
Legacy & Influence
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Dwight Schultz is remembered for bringing humanity, eccentricity, and nuance to his characters—not always fitting the classic hero mold.
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Murdock remains a charismatic cult figure in 1980s television lore; Barclay remains a favorite among Star Trek aficionados for his flawed but endearing nature.
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His voice roles have allowed him to remain active in animation and gaming, introducing him to new generations and audiences.
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As an actor who has embraced both mainstream and fringe interests, Schultz’s career stands as an example of longevity through versatility and passion.
Memorable Quotes by Dwight Schultz
Here are several quotes attributed to Schultz that reflect his perspective:
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“Governments are moved by numbers, and the greater the number of people who admit that they believe, the greater the likelihood that the secret — if there is one being kept — will be revealed.”
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“I’ve spent a lot of time researching the subject and government deception. So to be involved in Star Trek is perfect for me.”
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“Of course, I have Gene Roddenberry to thank for the creation of Barclay.”
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“The more I read, to me the more incredible everything is. Based on what I've read, there are all these other dimensional planes and spaces, mathematically proven.”
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“It could be that people just want to be connected to something that’s bigger than they are that can’t be proven. I don’t know, I don’t think that’s it.”
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“We all have a right to know, and if the government has been suppressing information about other life forms, that's the cruelest hoax of all.”
These remarks show his curiosity, skepticism, and openness to wonder.