John Goodman

Biography

John Goodman is a versatile and beloved American actor known for his rich voice, commanding presence, and remarkable range across comedy, drama, and animation. He was born and raised in Affton, Missouri, a suburb of St. Louis. After graduating from Missouri State University with a degree in drama, Goodman moved to New York City in the mid-1970s to pursue acting professionally. He began his career in theater and small television roles before breaking into film and eventually becoming a household name.

Career Highlights:

John Goodman first rose to prominence for his role as Dan Conner in the long-running sitcom Roseanne (1988–1997, revived in 2018), for which he won a Golden Globe Award and received several Emmy nominations. His portrayal of the down-to-earth, loving husband and father won him critical acclaim and made him a TV icon.

He has also had a prolific film career, frequently collaborating with the Coen Brothers on cult favorites such as:

Raising Arizona (1987)

Barton Fink (1991)

The Big Lebowski (1998)

O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)

Goodman’s filmography is wide-ranging, with standout performances in:

The Flintstones (1994)

Monsters, Inc. (2001) and its sequels, voicing Sulley

Argo (2012)

Flight (2012)

10 Cloverfield Lane (2016), earning high praise for his intense, layered performance

He has also voiced characters in numerous animated films and appeared in stage productions, including a Broadway performance in Waiting for Godot.

Legacy:

John Goodman is celebrated as one of the most dependable and gifted character actors in Hollywood. His ability to shift between comedy, horror, drama, and voice work has made him a favorite of directors and fans alike. Known for his humility, professionalism, and powerful screen presence, Goodman has earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and continues to work steadily in television and film.