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J.T. Walsh

Acting Born Sep 28, 1943 San Francisco, California, USA 24 credits

Biography

James Thomas Patrick 'J.T.' Walsh (September 28, 1943 - February 27, 1998) was an American actor. Known for his versatility and ability to play a wide range of characters, he had a successful career in film, television, and theater.

Before becoming an actor, Walsh worked as a stagehand and set builder. He made his on-screen debut in the early 1980s and quickly gained recognition for his convincing performances, often portraying authority figures or antagonists.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, his career took off with notable roles in films like Good Morning, Vietnam (1987), A Few Good Men (1992), and Sling Blade (1996). He had a commanding and intense presence on screen, making him memorable in both lead and supporting roles. He was known for his roles as "quietly sinister white-collar sleazeballs" (quote from Leonard Maltin) in numerous feature films and was described as "everybody's favourite scumbag" by Playboy magazine.

He was known for his dedication to authenticity and his meticulous approach to acting. He seamlessly transitioned between genres, showcasing his talent in drama, comedy, and suspense, earning him respect as a character actor.

Sadly, his career was cut short when he passed away on February 27, 1998, at the age of 54.

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Known for

The X-Files

as Warden Leo Brodeur

L.A. Law

as Pete Bostik

The Equalizer

as Andrew Banks

The Equalizer

as Sam Griffith
Film

Double Indemnity

1944
Film

Breakfast at Tiffany's

as Frank Bach
Film

A Few Good Men

as Lt. Col. Matthew A. Markinson
Film

Misery

as State Trooper Sherman Douglas (uncredited)

Full filmography

  • The X-Files (1993) as Warden Leo Brodeur
  • Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman (1993) as Col. Charles Fane
  • L.A. Law (1986) as Pete Bostik
  • The Equalizer (1985) as Andrew Banks
  • The Equalizer (1985) as Sam Griffith
  • Spenser: For Hire (1985)
  • Dark Skies (1996) as Frank Bach
  • A Few Good Men (1992) as Lt. Col. Matthew A. Markinson
  • The Negotiator (1998) as Insp. Terence Niebaum
  • Misery (1990) as State Trooper Sherman Douglas (uncredited)
  • Outbreak (1995) as Chief of Staff (uncredited)
  • Breakdown (1997) as Warren 'Red' Barr
  • Pleasantville (1998) as Big Bob
  • The Client (1994) as Jason McThune
  • Executive Decision (1996) as Senator Mavros
  • Backdraft (1991) as Alderman Marty Swayzak
  • Sniper (1993) as Beckett's Senior Officer
  • Good Morning, Vietnam (1987) as Sgt. Major Dickerson
  • Needful Things (1993) as Danforth Keeton III
  • Miracle on 34th Street (1994) as Ed Collins
  • Nixon (1995) as John Ehrlichman
  • The Last Seduction (1994) as Frank Griffith
  • Tequila Sunrise (1988) as DEA Agent Hal McGuire
  • Hannah and Her Sisters (1986) as Ed Smythe