James Read

Born:July 31, 1953

Place of Birth:Buffalo, New York, USA

Known For:Acting

Biography

James Read, born on July 31, 1953, in Buffalo, New York, is a seasoned American actor with a career spanning decades. His journey into the world of acting began during his time as a student at the University of Oregon, where he honed his craft before graduating in 1976.

Following his graduation, Read delved into the world of theater, taking on roles in off-Broadway productions and regional theaters, including The Denver Center Theatre Company, where he showcased his talent in leading roles over three seasons. It was here that his passion for the stage truly flourished.

One of Read's most notable roles came in the form of George Hazard in the North and South TV miniseries, which captivated audiences in the mid-1980s and early 1990s. His portrayal of this character from the John Jakes trilogy of novels solidified his place in the hearts of viewers and showcased his versatility as an actor.

Beyond his work on the small screen, Read also made a mark in the film industry with his co-starring role in the beloved movie "Beaches." His on-screen presence and ability to bring characters to life have earned him a dedicated following and critical acclaim throughout his career.

In addition to his successful acting career, Read found love on set, marrying actress Wendy Kilbourne, whom he met during the filming of North and South. Their partnership has stood the test of time, a testament to their bond both on and off the screen.

Throughout his career, Read has taken on a variety of roles, showcasing his range and talent in projects such as the popular series "Charmed," where he portrayed Victor Bennett, and the first season of "Remington Steele." His ability to immerse himself in diverse characters has solidified his reputation as a versatile and accomplished actor.

Away from the spotlight, Read furthered his education by earning a Master's Degree in psychology from Pepperdine University in 1998. This dedication to personal growth and learning reflects his multifaceted approach to life and his craft, demonstrating a depth beyond the characters he portrays on screen.

Currently, audiences can catch Read in the role of Ken Davis in the ABC family drama "Wildfire," where he continues to captivate viewers with his nuanced performances and undeniable presence. As a seasoned actor with a wealth of experience, James Read's contributions to the entertainment industry have left an indelible mark, solidifying his legacy as a talented and respected figure in Hollywood.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Legally Blonde

Elle's Father

2001

Fashionable sorority queen Elle Woods has it all, but, she wants nothing more than to be Mrs. Warner Huntington III. But he dumps her before heading to Harvard Law School. Elle rallies all of her resources and gets into Harvard, determined to win him back. While there, she figures out that there is more to herself than just good looks.

Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde

Elle's Father

2003

Now a rising young lawyer, Elle Woods is about to make partner at her firm, but when she finds out her dog's relatives are being used as cosmetic test subjects, she heads to Washington D.C. to fight for animal rights.

Not Another Teen Movie

Preston's Father

2001

On a bet, a gridiron hero at John Hughes High School sets out to turn a bespectacled plain Jane into a beautiful and popular prom queen in this outrageous send-up of the teen movies of the 1980s and '90s.

A Lot Like Love

Brent Friehl

2005

On a flight from Los Angeles to New York, Oliver and Emily make a connection, only to decide that they are poorly suited to be together. Over the next seven years, however, they are reunited time and time again, they go from being acquaintances to close friends to ... lovers?

Eight Men Out

Lefty Williams

1988

Buck Weaver and Hap Felsch are young idealistic players on the Chicago White Sox, a pennant-winning team owned by Charles Comiskey - a penny-pinching, hands-on manager who underpays his players and treats them with disdain. And when gamblers and hustlers discover that Comiskey's demoralized players are ripe for a money-making scheme, one by one the team members agree to throw the World Series. But when the White Sox are defeated, a couple of sports writers smell a fix and a national scandal explodes, ripping the cover off America's favorite pastime.

The Initiation

Peter

1984

An amnesiac sorority member who has been plagued by a recurring nightmare is stalked alongside other coeds by a killer in a deserted department store where they are completing a hazing ritual.

Blue Thunder

Policeman at Bridge

1983

Los Angeles, California. Officer Murphy, a veteran Metropolitan Police helicopter pilot suffering from severe trauma due to his harsh experiences during the Vietnam War, and Lymangood, his resourceful new partner, are tasked with testing an advanced and heavily armed experimental chopper known as Blue Thunder.