J.T. Walsh
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.
Acting
Movie
Misery
as State Trooper Sherman Douglas (uncredited)
1990
Movie
A Few Good Men
as Lt. Col. Matthew A. Markinson
1992
TV
The X-Files
as Warden Leo Brodeur
1993
Movie
Good Morning, Vietnam
as Sgt. Major Dickerson
1987
Movie
Outbreak
as Chief of Staff (uncredited)
1995
Movie
The Negotiator
as Insp. Terence Niebaum
1998
Movie
Pleasantville
as Big Bob
1998
Movie
Backdraft
as Alderman Marty Swayzak
1991
Movie
The Client
as Jason McThune
1994
Movie
Hannah and Her Sisters
as Ed Smythe
1986
Movie
Miracle on 34th Street
as Ed Collins
1994
Movie
Breakdown
as Warren 'Red' Barr
1997
Movie
Executive Decision
as Senator Mavros
1996
Movie
Sling Blade
as Charles Bushman
1996
Movie
National Lampoon's Loaded Weapon 1
as Desk Clerk
1993
Movie
Needful Things
as Danforth Keeton III
1993
Movie
Tequila Sunrise
as DEA Agent Hal McGuire
1988
TV
Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman
as Col. Charles Fane
1993
Movie
The Grifters
as Cole
1990
Movie
Sniper
as Beckett's Senior Officer
1993
Movie
The Last Seduction
as Frank Griffith
1994
Movie
Nixon
as John Ehrlichman
1995
Movie
Red Rock West
as Wayne Brown
1993
Movie
Hoffa
as Frank Fitzsimmons
1992
