Kurtwood Smith

Very few actors achieve the level of recognition Kurtwood Smith has earned for his versatility and longevity in film and television. Named one of the best character actors of his generation by Vanity Fair — a testament to a career defined by range, depth, and unforgettable performances. From his dramatic turn as Neil Perry’s strict father in Oscar-winning Dead Poets Society to his iconic villainous role as Clarence Boddicker in RoboCop, Smith seamlessly transitions between drama and comedy. He’s perhaps best known for bringing to life one of television’s most beloved paternal figures: Red Forman on That 70s Show, a role he recently reprised in Netflix’s That 90s Show — a character that has brought him worldwide recognition. There isn’t a list on the internet of iconic TV dads that doesn’t include him. 

Born and raised in New Lisbon, Wisconsin, Kurtwood moved at the age of ten to the San Fernando Valley in Southern California. He studied drama at California State University San Jose and later earned a drama fellowship at Stanford University’s esteemed MFA program. He worked steadily in California regional theater during the seventies, relocated to Los Angeles in 1979 where he has consistently worked in film and television for over four decades. 

Smith recently appeared on both of Steve Conrad’s critically acclaimed series Patriot (Amazon) and Perpetual Grace, Ltd (MGM/EPIX). Other notable television appearances include a series regular role on ABC’s Resurrection, the CBS sitcom Worst Week, recurring arcs on Hulu’s Emmy-winning limited series The Dropout, Marvel’s Agent Carter, as well as 24 and Medium and major guest roles on House and the X-Files, among many others. 

Smith has also been featured in such successful films as the Oscar winning Girl, Interrupted, as well as the Oscar-nominated short film 12:01 P.M. Other feature film credits include Cedar Rapids, Hitchcock, Deep Impact, Citizen Ruth, A Time to Kill, Broken Arrow, The Crush, Boxing Helena, Fortress, and To Die For, and more. 

Smith has been seen in such telefilms as The Bright Shining Lie, The Magnificent Seven, While Justice Sleeps, Doorways, The Christmas Gift, and The Nightmare Years for which Smith was nominated for a Cable Ace Award for Best Supporting Actor on a Mini-Series.  

Mr. Smith’s distinct voice has been heard in many animated series such as Monsters at Work, F is for Family, Pig, Goat, Banana, Cricket, Regular Show, Rick and Morty, Green Lantern, Beware the Batman, Neighbors from Hell, Squirrel Boy, and The Zeta Project.

Kurtwood resides in Los Angeles with his wife, Joan. He is a proud father and grandfather of two grandchildren.