As the self-appointed High Commander, Dick Solomon leads the expedition with the confidence of a genius and the emotional maturity of a toddler. Assigned the cover identity of a college physics professor, he treats every human experience as a thrilling first, hurling himself into love, rage, and wonder with no filter and even less dignity.
His grand obsession becomes Dr. Mary Albright, a fellow academic whose affection he pursues with romantic schemes that are equal parts sweet and disastrous. Through their on-again, off-again relationship, the mission's commander slowly discovers that feelings cannot be ordered around like a subordinate crew.
Over six seasons, Dick remains gloriously incapable of learning subtlety, yet he grows a genuine, fumbling heart. By the finale, the bluster gives way to real tenderness as he reckons with what leaving Earth, and Mary, would actually cost him.
Key Episodes
S1 E1
Brains and Eggs
Dick assembles his crew, claims the role of family patriarch, and takes his first staggering steps into human life and his professorship.
S6 E21
The Thing That Wouldn't Die
In the two-part finale, Dick faces the end of the mission and a wrenching choice between duty to the Big Giant Head and his life with Mary.
Dick Solomon is one of the central figures in 3rd Rock from the Sun, a comedy/sitcom/sci-fi series that aired on NBC from 1996-2001. Within the narrative of 3rd Rock from the Sun, Dick Solomon serves as a pivotal character whose decisions and relationships drive key story arcs throughout Seasons 1-6. The character's journey has been central to many of the show's most memorable and discussed moments.
Portrayed by John Lithgow, Dick Solomon has become one of the most recognizable characters in modern television. John Lithgow's performance brings nuance and depth to the role, creating a character that resonates with audiences on both intellectual and emotional levels. John Lithgow's work has been recognized with 5 major awards, reflecting the critical acclaim their portrayal has received.
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? Frequently Asked Questions
John Lithgow plays Dick Solomon in 3rd Rock from the Sun.
Dick Solomon is the alien High Commander who poses as a human physics professor and father, leading his crew through the baffling rituals of life on Earth while falling for colleague Mary Albright.
