It's been four decades since Richard Dean Anderson's breakout role in the MacGyver franchise.
The actor starred in the hit series from 1985 to 1992, during which the star once donned dirty blond shoulder-length hair with a middle part and bangs.
The popular series was actually created by Richard and Michael Greenburg's joint production company called Gekko Film Corp.
© Getty ImagesThe star was spotted most recently speaking on the Stargate: SG-1: Taking This Loop Off panel in Georgia for Dragon Con on September 6.
Richard looked unrecognizable as he sported short white hair and a white beard, as well as black frame glasses.
Richard Dean Anderson's take on the series MacGyver
In 1987, the entertainer shared his positive take on the character, explaining: "I'm happy with MacGyver; he is a relatively nonviolent character that uses his brain and not his brawn to solve problems," per the Carroll County Times.
He continued: "Anytime MacGyver makes a bomb, it's a diversionary tactic. If he does blow up some bad guys, you'll see them getting up, dusting themselves off. Nobody dies at the hand of MacGyver."
Richard joked: "Most of the guys who recognize me in New York are the cabbies and construction workers. They'll yell out, 'Yo, MacGyver, make me a bomb.'"
© Getty ImagesThe actor recalled his audition process for the major role and remembered just how anxious he was to read for the part.
He revealed: "I met the producers, Henry Winkler (The Fonz) and John Rich. Henry is an actor first, so he put his arm around me and calmed me down. He has an enormous heart and makes you feel comfortable."
Richard continued: "He handed me a script, and I couldn't read it because I have terrible eyes. I put on my glasses, and that's when he decided I was right for the part. He said I was unpretentious and down to earth, and that's what they wanted."
© Getty ImagesAbout Richard Dean Anderson's career
The performer was born in Minnesota and attended Alexander Ramsey High School, where he kicked off his aspirations of becoming a professional hockey player, however, he broke one of his arms, and then three weeks later, he broke his second arm, which ended his career early.
He went on to study acting at St. Cloud State University and next at Ohio University, however, he didn't end up graduating.
Richard moved to New York City and his first on-screen role debut was in 1975 for The Birthday Party for the United States Marine Corps, before appearing in General Hospital and Seven Brides for Seven Brides.
© Getty ImagesTwo years later, the MacGyver series came out with two follow-up films. From 1997 to 2005, he appeared in Stargate SG-1.
Later on, he appeared in Legend, Fairly Legal and more, however, he has since focused more on his philanthropic work, and is a member of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society's Board of Advisors.
