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 sho…

Movies & TV Shows

1. Misery (1990) — State Trooper Sherman Douglas (uncredited)
2. A Few Good Men (1992) — Lt. Col. Matthew A. Markinson
3. The X-Files (1993) — Warden Leo Brodeur
4. Good Morning, Vietnam (1987) — Sgt. Major Dickerson
5. Outbreak (1995) — Chief of Staff (uncredited)
6. The Negotiator (1998) — Insp. Terence Niebaum
7. Pleasantville (1998) — Big Bob
8. Backdraft (1991) — Alderman Marty Swayzak
9. The Client (1994) — Jason McThune
10. Hannah and Her Sisters (1986) — Ed Smythe
11. Miracle on 34th Street (1994) — Ed Collins
12. Breakdown (1997) — Warren 'Red' Barr
13. Executive Decision (1996) — Senator Mavros
14. Sling Blade (1996) — Charles Bushman
15. National Lampoon's Loaded Weapon 1 (1993) — Desk Clerk
16. Needful Things (1993) — Danforth Keeton III
17. Tequila Sunrise (1988) — DEA Agent Hal McGuire
18. Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman (1993) — Col. Charles Fane
19. The Grifters (1990) — Cole
20. Sniper (1993) — Beckett's Senior Officer
21. The Last Seduction (1994) — Frank Griffith
22. Nixon (1995) — John Ehrlichman
23. Red Rock West (1993) — Wayne Brown
24. Hoffa (1992) — Frank Fitzsimmons
25. House of Games (1987) — The Businessman
26. The Russia House (1990) — Colonel Quinn
27. Narrow Margin (1990) — Michael Tarlow
28. Blue Chips (1994) — Happy
29. The Babysitter (1995) — Harry Tucker
30. Tin Men (1987) — Wing
31. Dad (1989) — Dr. Santana
32. The Big Picture (1989) — Allen Habel
33. Crazy People (1990) — Drucker
34. Silent Fall (1994) — Sheriff Mitch Rivers
35. Things Change (1988) — Hotel Manager
36. L.A. Law (1986) — Pete Bostik
37. Power (1986) — Jerome Cade
38. The Equalizer (1985) — Andrew Banks
39. Dark Skies (1996) — Frank Bach
40. Why Me? (1990) — Francis Mahoney