An esteemed American character actor, he was born in 1931 in Toledo, Ohio. He gained recognition for his versatile performances in film and television. With a career spanning over five decades, he became known for his collaborations with director Paul Thomas Anderson, notably in "Boogie Nights" and "Magnolia." His intense screen presence and ability to embody complex roles brought depth to every performance. His work in "Hard Eight" and the sitcom "Seinfeld" further showcased his exceptional talent.