
Actor
J.T. Walsh
Born September 28, 1943 in San Francisco, California, USADied February 27, 199863 films
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.
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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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The best way into J.T. Walsh's work
First watchMisery19907.8as State Trooper Sherman Douglas (uncredited)After an accident, acclaimed novelist Paul Sheldon is rescued by a nurse who claims to be his biggest fan. Her obsession takes a dark turn when she holds him captive in her remote Colorado…View filmEssential films
Ranked by acclaim and reachFilmography
63 films as actor- 1999Hidden AgendaJonathan Zanuck
- 1998PleasantvilleBig Bob
- 1998The NegotiatorInsp. Terence Niebaum
- 1997HopeRay Percy
- 1997BreakdownWarren 'Red' Barr
- 1996Persons UnknownCake
- 1996Dark SkiesCapt. Frank Bach
- 1996Crime of the CenturyCol. Norman Schwarzkopf
- 1996Gang in BlueLt. William Eyler
- 1996Sling BladeCharles Bushman
- 1996Sacred CargoFather Stanislav
- 1996The Little DeathTed Hannon
- 1996Executive DecisionSenator Mavros
- 1995NixonJohn Ehrlichman
- 1995Charlie's Ghost StoryDarryl
- 1995The Low LifeMike Sr
- 1995The BabysitterHarry Tucker
- 1995Black Day Blue NightLt. John Quinn
- 1995OutbreakChief of Staff (uncredited)
- 1994Miracle on 34th StreetEd Collins
- 1994Star StruckGreer
- 1994Silent FallSheriff Mitch Rivers
- 1994The ClientJason McThune
- 1994The Last SeductionFrank Griffith
- 1994Some Folks Call It a Sling BladeCharles Bushman
- 1994Blue ChipsHappy
- 1993Partners"Grave Squad" Lawyer
- 1993Morning GlorySheriff Reese Goodloe
- 1993Needful ThingsDanforth Keeton III
- 1993Red Rock WestWayne Brown
- 1993National Lampoon's Loaded Weapon 1Desk Clerk
- 1993SniperBeckett's Senior Officer
- 1993The American Clock
- 1992HoffaFrank Fitzsimmons
- 1992A Few Good MenLt. Col. Matthew A. Markinson
- 1992In the Shadow of a KillerInsp. Leo Kemeny
- 1992The PromGrover Dean
- 1992ContactRadio Lieutenant
- 1991Iron MazeJack Ruhle
- 1991DefenselessSteven Seldes
- 1991True IdentityHouston
- 1991BackdraftAlderman Marty Swayzak
- 1990The Russia HouseColonel Quinn
- 1990MiseryState Trooper Sherman Douglas (uncredited)
- 1990Narrow MarginMichael Tarlow
- 1990The GriftersCole
- 1990Crazy PeopleDrucker
- 1990Why Me?Francis Mahoney
- 1989DadDr. Santana
- 1989The Big PictureAllen Habel
- 1989WiredBob Woodward
- 1988Tequila SunriseDEA Agent Hal McGuire
- 1988Things ChangeHotel Manager
- 1987Good Morning, VietnamSgt. Major Dickerson
- 1987House of GamesThe Businessman
- 1987Tin MenWing
- 1986Hannah and Her SistersEd Smythe
- 1986PowerJerome Cade
- 1985Right to Kill?Maj. Eckworth
- 1985Hard ChoicesDeputy Anderson
- 1984The Beniker GangPrincipal Stoddard
- 1983Jacobo Timerman: Prisoner Without a Name, Cell Without a Number
- 1983Eddie Macon's RunMan in Bar







