David Strathairn
Edit
Enlarge Image
David Russell Strathairn, born on January 26, 1949, in San Francisco, California, is an accomplished American actor known for his extensive work in both film and theater. He was born into a family of Scottish descent, with his father working as a physician. Strathairn grew up with two siblings.
Quick Facts
- Birth Date
- 26 Jan, 1949
- Age
- 71 yrs
- Occupations
- Film actor
Television actor
Stage actor
Film producer
Show all facts
- Citizenship
- United States of America
- Birth Place
- San Francisco
- Gender
- Male
- Description
- American actor
- Net Worth 2021
- 8 million
Explore Related Biographies
Selected for this profile
People Mentioned in This Biography
Education and Early Training
Strathairn attended Redwood High School in California before enrolling at Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts, graduating in 1970. Following his undergraduate education, he pursued a unique path in performance by studying at the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College in Venice, Florida, where he trained in clowning and physical theatre—an early experience that contributed to his expressive acting style.
Early Career and Film Breakthroughs
Before entering mainstream acting, David Strathairn briefly worked as a clown. His film debut came with a small role in John Sayles' 1983 film Return of the Secaucus 7. Strathairn went on to collaborate frequently with Sayles, appearing in critically acclaimed films such as City of Hope and The Brother from Another Planet. His performance in City of Hope earned him an Independent Spirit Award, helping solidify his reputation in independent cinema.
Throughout his career, Strathairn has skillfully portrayed diverse characters. He played a psychiatrist in Twisted, a convict brother in The Firm, and a dedicated husband in The River Wild. He also earned recognition for his role as CIA Deputy Director Noah Vosen in the blockbuster thriller The Bourne Ultimatum.
