J.T. Walsh

J.T. Walsh

1943-09-28 – 1998-02-27 (age 54) San Francisco, California, USA
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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

Misery
Misery

1990

as State Trooper Sherman Douglas (uncredited)

A Few Good Men
A Few Good Men

1992

as Lt. Col. Matthew A. Markinson

The Negotiator
The Negotiator

1998

as Insp. Terence Niebaum

Outbreak
Outbreak

1995

as Chief of Staff (uncredited)

Miracle on 34th Street
Miracle on 34th Street

1994

as Ed Collins

The Client
The Client

1994

as Jason McThune

Backdraft
Backdraft

1991

as Alderman Marty Swayzak

Good Morning, Vietnam
Good Morning, Vietnam

1987

as Sgt. Major Dickerson

Breakdown
Breakdown

1997

as Warren 'Red' Barr

Executive Decision
Executive Decision

1996

as Senator Mavros

Pleasantville
Pleasantville

1998

as Big Bob

Hannah and Her Sisters
Hannah and Her Sisters

1986

as Ed Smythe

Needful Things
Needful Things

1993

as Danforth Keeton III

Sniper
Sniper

1993

as Beckett's Senior Officer

National Lampoon's Loaded Weapon 1
Nixon
Nixon

1995

as John Ehrlichman

Tequila Sunrise
Tequila Sunrise

1988

as DEA Agent Hal McGuire

The Russia House
The Russia House

1990

as Colonel Quinn

The Grifters
The Grifters

1990

as Cole

Hoffa
Hoffa

1992

as Frank Fitzsimmons