Biography
Who is John Goodman?
Early life and education
John Goodman was born on June 20, 1952, in Affton, Missouri. His father, Leslie Francis Goodman, worked as a postal worker before passing away from a heart attack when John was two. His mother, Virginia Roos, supported the family through various jobs including waitressing and laundry work. He grew up with an older brother named Leslie and a younger sister named Elisabeth.
During his school years, he attended Affton High School and played football as an offensive guard and defensive tackle. He eventually attended Missouri State University on a football scholarship, though an ACL injury prevented him from playing. Instead, he focused on the university drama program and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1975. He later received an honorary doctorate from the same institution in 2013.
How John became famous
After moving to New York City, he found work in voice-overs, commercials, and theater. His early film appearances included Eddie Macon's Run in 1982 and True Stories in 1986. He also appeared in the movie Revenge of the Nerds during this period of his career.
His major breakthrough came through the ABC sitcom Roseanne, where he played Dan Conner from 1988 to 1997. This role earned him a Golden Globe and seven Primetime Emmy Award nominations. He later returned to this character for the show's revival and the spin-off series The Conners.
Career highlights
John Goodman has worked extensively with the Coen brothers in films like Raising Arizona, Barton Fink, and The Big Lebowski. His diverse filmography includes roles in King Ralph, The Babe, Matinee, and The Flintstones. He also appeared in movies such as Argo, Flight, and Kong: Skull Island.
In addition to live action, he is a prominent voice actor. He provided the voice for Pacha in The Emperor's New Groove and played Sulley in the Monsters, Inc. Franchise. He has also voiced characters in The Princess and the Frog and Bee Movie. His television work includes appearances in Treme, Damages, and The Righteous Gemstones. He also won a Primetime Emmy Award for his work on Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip.
Stage and other work
His stage career includes a Broadway debut in Big River in 1985, which earned him a Drama Desk Award nomination. He has performed at The Public Theater in productions like Henry IV, Part 1 and The Seagull. He also appeared in West End revivals such as American Buffalo.
He is a member of the Five Timers Club because he hosted Saturday Night Live 13 times between 1989 and 2013. His various television roles have spanned from guest spots on The West Wing to comedic performances in various series.
Birthday and age
John Goodman was born on June 20, 1952, which makes John 74 years old today. That birthday falls under the Gemini sign. John shares the date with 38 other famous people.
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