John Lithgow

Born:October 19, 1945

Place of Birth:Rochester, New York, USA

Known For:Acting

Biography

John Lithgow, born on October 19, 1945, in Rochester, New York, is a distinguished American actor whose career has spanned across stage, television, and film. Lithgow's talent and dedication to his craft have earned him a multitude of prestigious awards, including six Primetime Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, and two Tony Awards. His ability to seamlessly transition between various genres and roles has solidified his reputation as a versatile and accomplished performer in the entertainment industry.

After honing his skills at Harvard University and the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, Lithgow made his Broadway debut in 1972 in "The Changing Room," a performance that earned him his first Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play. Throughout his career on stage, he has continued to captivate audiences with memorable portrayals in productions such as "Sweet Smell of Success," "M. Butterfly," and "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels," showcasing his range and depth as a performer.

Lithgow's success on the small screen is equally impressive, notably for his portrayal of the quirky alien Dick Solomon in the beloved sitcom "3rd Rock from the Sun," which garnered him three Primetime Emmy Awards for Best Actor in a Comedy Series. His compelling performances in dramas like "Dexter" and "The Crown" further solidified his status as a versatile actor capable of tackling complex and diverse roles with finesse.

In the realm of film, Lithgow has delivered memorable performances in a wide array of movies, earning two Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor for his roles in "The World According to Garp" and "Terms of Endearment." His filmography includes acclaimed works such as "All That Jazz," "Interstellar," "Bombshell," and the animated hit "Shrek," where he lent his voice to the character of Lord Farquaad, showcasing his ability to excel in both live-action and animated roles.

Beyond his impressive acting credentials, Lithgow is also recognized for his contributions to the theater, having received accolades for his performances in plays like "The Columnist," "A Delicate Balance," and "Hillary and Clinton." His dedication to the craft of acting and his commitment to bringing depth and authenticity to his characters have cemented his legacy as a versatile and respected figure in the entertainment industry.

As John Lithgow continues to captivate audiences with his compelling performances on stage, screen, and television, his enduring talent and versatility serve as a testament to his status as one of the most accomplished actors of his generation. His ability to inhabit a wide range of characters with depth and nuance has solidified his reputation as a true master of his craft, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment for decades to come.

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John Lithgow
John Lithgow
John Lithgow
John Lithgow
John Lithgow
John Lithgow

Filmography

Acting

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The Accountant

Lamar Blackburn

2016

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Interstellar

Donald

2014

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Shrek

Lord Farquaad (voice)

2001

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Conclave

Tremblay

2024

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Killers of the Flower Moon

Prosecutor Peter Leaward

2023

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Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Charles Rodman

2011

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Spellbound

Bolinar (voice)

2024

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Daddy's Home 2

Don

2017

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Cliffhanger

Eric Qualen

1993

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Sharper

Richard Hobbes

2023

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Footloose

Rev. Shaw Moore

1984

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Confessions of a Shopaholic

Edgar West

2009

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Leap Year

Jack Brady

2010

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Pitch Perfect 3

Fergus

2017

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This Is 40

Oliver

2012

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Pet Sematary

Jud Crandall

2019

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Bombshell

Roger Ailes

2019

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Dreamgirls

Jerry Harris

2006

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2010

Dr. Walter Curnow

1984

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The Pelican Brief

Smith Keen

1993

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The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension

Lord John Whorfin

1984

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Twilight Zone: The Movie

Valentine

1983

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New Year's Eve

Jonathan Cox (uncredited)

2011

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The Homesman

Reverend Alfred Dowd

2014

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A Civil Action

Judge Walter J. Skinner

1998

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The Campaign

Glen Motch

2012

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The Rule of Jenny Pen

Dave Crealy

2025

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Miss Sloane

Senator Ronald Sperling

2016

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Blow Out

Burke

1981

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Harry and the Hendersons

George Henderson

1987

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Terms of Endearment

Sam Burns

1983

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The Day After

Joe Huxley

1983

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Cabrini

Mayor Gould

2024

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Raising Cain

Carter Nix / Cain / Dr. Nix / Josh / Margo

1992

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All That Jazz

Lucas Sergeant

1979

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Memphis Belle

Bruce Derringer

1990

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Kinsey

Alfred Seguine Kinsey

2004

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Late Night

Walter Lovell

2019

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Ricochet

Earl Talbott Blake

1991

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The World According to Garp

Roberta Muldoon

1982

Production

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The Rule of Jenny Pen

Executive Producer

2025