Bob Balaban: A Character Actor with a Rich Career

Early Life and Career

Robert Elmer Balaban was born on August 16, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois. He began his acting career in the early 1970s, appearing in small roles in films such as Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Deer Hunter.

Breakout Roles

Balaban's breakout role came in the 1980 film My Favorite Year, for which he received a Golden Globe nomination. He went on to star in a number of memorable films, including Gosford Park (2001), A Mighty Wind (2003), and The Monuments Men (2014).

Versatile Talent

Balaban is known for his versatility, playing a wide range of characters. He has portrayed everything from eccentric intellectuals to bumbling bureaucrats. His talent for creating memorable characters has made him a sought-after actor in both film and television.

Humble Beginnings

Despite his success, Balaban remains humble about his career. When asked about his iconic status, he simply says, "I'm just an actor. People ask me, 'Hey, don't I know you from somewhere?' and I say, 'Yeah, you've seen me on TV or in movies.' That's all there is to it."