The Death of Richie

"The Death of Richie" is a 1977 American made-for-television drama film directed by Paul Wendkos and based on the non-fiction book "Richie" by Thomas Thompson. The movie tells the true story of George Richard Diener Jr.'s life, including his struggles with drug addiction and his tragic death at the hands of his father, George Diener. Eileen Brennan plays Richie's mother Carol, who tries to be supportive despite her own struggles, while Ben Gazzara portrays George Werner, a stern man who eventually takes extreme measures to save his son's life.