David Strathairn

American actor, known for his leading roles on stage and screen, who has often portrayed historical figures. He made his reputation in independent films produced by John Sayles. He has received various accolades including an Independent Spirit Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a Volpi Cup, and has been nominated for an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, two Golden Globe Awards, and four Screen Actors Guild Awards.

The son of a physician, Strathairn became interested in acting early but his first professional gig was as a clown in a travelling circus. The job only lasted a few months.

He reunited with his friend John Sayles; in 1980 the film that established both men's reputations, The Return of the Secaucus 7, was released. That same year he married Logan Goodman and the couple has two children.

Strathairn's dark, somewhat brooding good looks lend themselves to a trademark intensity that makes his presence felt. With Sayles directing, he gave impressive performances in Matewan (1987) and Eight Men Out (1988).

A versatile actor he has been seen in quite an array of films, in a wide-range of roles. In 2005 he gave a stellar lead performance as Edward R. Murrow in Good Night and Good Luck for which he was nominated for an Academy Award.