J. T. Walsh

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.

Most Known For

The X-Files

as Warden Leo Brodeur

Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman

as Col. Charles Fane

The Equalizer

as Andrew Banks

The Equalizer

as Sam Griffith

L.A. Law

as Pete Bostik

Misery

as State Trooper Sherman Douglas (uncredited)

Spenser: For Hire

A Few Good Men

as Lt. Col. Matthew A. Markinson

Needful Things

as Danforth Keeton III

The Negotiator

as Insp. Terence Niebaum

Miracle on 34th Street

as Ed Collins

Dark Skies

as Frank Bach

The Big Picture

as Allen Habel

Outbreak

as Chief of Staff (uncredited)

Hoffa

as Frank Fitzsimmons

Breakdown

as Warren 'Red' Barr

The Client

as Jason McThune

Nixon

as John Ehrlichman

Tin Men

as Wing

Good Morning, Vietnam

as Sgt. Major Dickerson