# Oliver Platt > Canadian-born American actor (born 1960) **Wikidata**: [Q343510](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q343510) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oliver_Platt) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/oliver-platt ## Summary Oliver Platt is a Canadian-born American actor known for his work across film, television, and stage. He is recognized as a versatile character actor who has contributed to a wide range of productions, often portraying distinctive and memorable roles in both comedic and dramatic genres. ## Biography - Born: January 12, 1960 - Nationality: Canada (birth), United States (citizenship) - Education: Tufts University - Known for: Acting in film, television, and theatre as a character actor - Employer(s): Not specified in provided data - Field(s): Acting, entertainment ## Contributions Oliver Platt has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry through his performances in film, television, and theatre. His body of work includes: - Roles in major motion pictures such as *Flatliners* (1990), *The Player* (1992), *Cruel Intentions* (1999), and *X-Men: First Class* (2011) - Television appearances in series like *The West Wing*, where he played key roles, and *Monk*, where he had a recurring presence - Stage performances in live productions, affirming his versatility across different acting mediums - A career spanning over three decades, beginning in 1987 Platt's work has helped define the role of the character actor in modern American entertainment, often bringing depth and nuance to eccentric or complex roles. ## FAQs **What is Oliver Platt known for?** Oliver Platt is known as a Canadian-born American actor who has worked extensively in film, television, and theatre. He is recognized for playing eccentric and memorable characters, often in supporting roles that add depth to the narrative. **Where did Oliver Platt study?** Oliver Platt was educated at Tufts University, a private research university in Medford and Somerville, Massachusetts, United States. **What kind of roles does Oliver Platt typically play?** Oliver Platt predominantly plays character roles, often portraying individuals with distinctive personalities or quirks. These roles are commonly found in both comedic and dramatic productions across various media, including film and television. **When did Oliver Platt start his career?** Oliver Platt began his professional acting career in 1987, and has since become a well-established figure in the entertainment industry. **What are some notable projects Oliver Platt has worked on?** Oliver Platt has appeared in films such as *Flatliners*, *The Player*, *Cruel Intentions*, and *X-Men: First Class*. He has also had significant television roles in *The West Wing* and *Monk*. ## Why They Matter Oliver Platt has influenced the entertainment industry by consistently delivering compelling performances as a character actor. His ability to embody complex, often eccentric roles has enriched the storytelling in numerous productions. Through his work, Platt has demonstrated the importance of character-driven acting, contributing to a broader appreciation of supporting roles in film and television. His performances have provided memorable moments that resonate with audiences, reinforcing the value of nuanced acting in both mainstream and independent productions. ## Notable For - Prolific filmography spanning over 30 years - Versatility across film, television, and stage - Recurring roles in acclaimed series such as *The West Wing* and *Monk* - Memorable performances in films like *Flatliners*, *The Player*, and *X-Men: First Class* - Recognition as a distinguished character actor in American entertainment - Alumni of Tufts University, a prestigious private research institution ## Body ### Early Life Oliver James Platt was born on January 12, 1960. He holds Canadian nationality by birth and American citizenship by residence. His early education laid the foundation for a career in acting, beginning with studies at Tufts University, a well-regarded private research university in Massachusetts, United States. ### Career Oliver Platt's professional acting career began in 1987. Since then, he has built a diverse portfolio across multiple entertainment formats: - **Film**: Platt has appeared in a range of films, including *Flatliners* (1990), *The Player* (1992), *Cruel Intentions* (1999), and *X-Men: First Class* (2011). These roles showcase his ability to bring depth to characters that often serve as pivotal figures in their respective narratives. - **Television**: Platt has had recurring and guest roles in popular television series such as *The West Wing* and *Monk*. His television work often features him in roles that blend wit, intelligence, and eccentricity. - **Stage**: Platt has also performed in live theatre, affirming his status as a stage actor. His live performances contribute to his reputation as a versatile performer. ### Influence Platt's influence on the entertainment industry lies in his consistent portrayal of complex, often quirky characters. His work has helped elevate the role of the character actor, demonstrating that supporting roles can be as impactful as leading ones. His performances have contributed to the richness of storytelling in film and television, influencing how nuanced characters are cast and developed. ### Legacy Over the course of his career, Oliver Platt has established himself as a respected figure in American entertainment. His legacy includes a long list of memorable performances that have contributed to the cultural fabric of film and television. As a character actor, Platt has shown that depth and personality in supporting roles are essential to the success of a production. His work continues to inspire both audiences and aspiring actors, reinforcing the importance of character-driven storytelling. ## References 1. BnF authorities 2. The Peerage 3. Integrated Authority File 4. International Standard Name Identifier 5. Virtual International Authority File 6. MusicBrainz 7. SNAC 8. Internet Broadway Database 9. GeneaStar 10. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 11. Autoritats UB 12. The Movie Database 13. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data 14. [Regional Database of the Central Bohemian Research Library in Kladno](https://ipac.svkkl.cz/arl-kl/cs/detail-kl_us_auth-p0092867-Platt-Oliver-1960)