Gary Cole

After completing his high school education, Cole enrolled at Illinois State University, where he studied theater arts. Upon graduation, he moved to Chicago and became part of the ensemble at the renowned Steppenwolf Theatre Company.

Cole started his career in the entertainment industry by appearing on stage productions, including “Streamers”, “True West”, and “Balm in Gilead”. He made his film debut in 1983 through the comedy-drama film “Heart Like a Wheel” starring Bonnie Bedelia, where he portrayed racecar driver Gary Bettenhausen. He starred in several other films such as “Lucas,” “In the Line of Duty: Ambush in Waco,” and “Office Space.”

In 1991, Cole received critical acclaim for his performance as Harvey Leek on the crime-drama television series “Midnight Caller.” He also played Jack “Nighthawk” Killian on the same show. His notable television appearances include “American Gothic,” “The West Wing,” and “Desperate Housewives.”

Cole’s career reached the pinnacle when he played the role of Bill Lumbergh in the 1999 satirical comedy “Office Space.” This became a cult classic, and his portrayal of the lazy and oblivious boss is widely recognized as one of his most memorable performances.

In 2008, he starred as Sheriff Lucas Buck in the CBS mystery series “Harper’s Island.” His performance in this series received critical acclaim, and he was nominated for the Saturn Award in the Best Supporting Actor Category.

Cole’s talent has also extended beyond the stage and the screen. He lent his voice for various animated television series such as “Kim Possible,” “Harvey Birdman, Attorney at Law,” and “Family Guy.”

His stage performances showcase his versatility as an actor. He won an LA Weekly Theatre Award for Best Leading Performance for his portrayal of Mickey Marcus in the play “Jews Without Money” and an Ovation Award for Outstanding Actor for his performance in the play “August: Osage County.”

Cole has been married to Teddi Siddall since 1992, and they have a daughter together. He is also actively involved in charity work, including the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, for which he served as an ambassador.

In conclusion, Gary Cole is a highly-talented actor who has left his mark in the entertainment industry. His ability to portray diverse roles in films, television, and theater productions is a testament to his versatility as an actor. His dedication to charity work also shows that he is not only an excellent actor but also a good-hearted man who is determined to make the world a better place.