Born in Newark, New Jersey, he pursued journalism before turning to acting. He honed his craft at The Actors Studio, leading to a prolific career as a character actor. Known for his roles in the 1970s and 1980s, he often portrayed nervous or scheming bureaucrats and businessmen. He appeared in films such as "The Conversation," "Nashville," and "Beverly Hills Cop II." His distinctive presence and ability to embody diverse, complex characters made him a memorable figure in American cinema.