Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Kevin Delaney Kline is an American actor with a career spanning more than four decades. His impressive repertoire includes roles in both comedic and dramatic films, earning him the reputation as a versatile performer. A graduate of the Juilliard School, Kline's foundation was built on the tenets of classical theatrical performance, an influence that would later manifest in his depth of characterization and nuanced performances. Kline began his acting career on stage, making Broadway appearances in shows like On the Twentieth Century and The Pirates of Penzance, for which he received two Tony Awards. However, it was his role in the 1988 film A Fish Called Wanda that catapulted him into mainstream Hollywood, earning him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. His rich filmography also includes notable films such as The Big Chill, In & Out, and De-Lovely. Despite his successful film career, Kline never strayed far from his love for theater. He periodically returned to the stage, where he continued to deliver powerful performances. His portrayal of Falstaff in the 2008 New York Shakespeare Festival production of Henry IV garnered him much critical acclaim. Offstage, Kline is known for his commitment to arts education and advocacy, demonstrating an unwavering passion for the performing arts.