Ed Harris, an American actor, director, and screenwriter, was born on November 28, 1950, in Englewood, New Jersey. Harris's journey into the realm of acting began in high school when he participated in school productions. His passion for performing arts led him to the University of Oklahoma, where he studied drama. He then honed his craft at the California Institute of the Arts, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1975. Harris embarked on his professional career with stage performances and minor roles in television before transitioning to film. In his illustrious career spanning over four decades, Harris has showcased remarkable versatility in delivering gritty, compelling performances across a wide range of genres. His breakthrough came in 1983 with the science fiction thriller The Right Stuff, earning him his first nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Subsequent works such as Apollo 13, The Truman Show, and Pollock cemented his reputation as one of Hollywood's most reliable actors, garnering him three more Academy nominations. Harris's talent extends beyond acting, proving him to be a gifted director and screenwriter as well. His directorial debut, Pollock, in which he also starred, won widespread critical acclaim. Harris simultaneously worked in theater, earning a Drama Desk Award for Outstanding One-Person Show for his role in the play Wrecks. Throughout his career, Ed Harris has remained a symbol of dedication and proficiency in his craft.