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Patrick Wilson
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Patrick Joseph Wilson (born July 3, 1973) is an American actor, director, and producer. He began his career in 1995, starring in Broadway musicals. He received nominations for two Tony Awards for his roles in The Full Monty (2000–2001) and Oklahoma! (2002). He co-starred in the HBO miniseries Angels in America (2003), for which he was nominated for a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award.
Key Information
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Wilson appeared in films such as The Alamo (2004), The Phantom of the Opera (2004), Hard Candy (2005), Little Children (2006), Watchmen (2009), and The A-Team (2010). He gained wider recognition for his starring role in the Insidious film series (2010–2023) and as Ed Warren in The Conjuring universe (2013–present), earning him a Scream king title.[1][2] He made his directorial debut with the sequel Insidious: The Red Door (2023).
On television, Wilson starred in the CBS drama series A Gifted Man (2011–2012) and as Lou Solverson in the second season of FX's anthology series Fargo (2015), for which he received a second Golden Globe nomination. In the DC Extended Universe, he played Ocean Master in Aquaman (2018) and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023).
Early life
[edit]Patrick Joseph Wilson was born in Norfolk, Virginia, on July 3, 1973, the son of voice teacher and singer Mary Kay Wilson and WTVT news anchor John Franklin Wilson. He has two older brothers: Paul, an advertising executive, and Mark, who succeeded their father as a WTVT news anchor.[3][4] Wilson grew up in St. Petersburg, Florida, where he attended Shorecrest Preparatory School.[5] In 1995, he graduated with a BFA in Drama from Carnegie Mellon University.[6]
Career
[edit]
Early stage and TV work
[edit]In 1995, Wilson made his acting debut as an understudy in the role of Chris Scott in the national touring production of Miss Saigon.[7] The following year, he portrayed Billy Bigelow in the national tour of Carousel.[8] In 1999, he starred as Jamie Conway in the off-Broadway production of Bright Lights, Big City, and Wilson later made his Broadway theatre debut in The Full Monty (2000), portraying Jerry Lukowski.[9] For his performance in the role, he was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical and the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical.[10][11]
Circa 2000, Wilson completed work on the film My Sister's Wedding, which has never been released.[12] He sang "On the Street Where You Live" from My Fair Lady for Julie Andrews' awards ceremony when she received the Kennedy Center Honors in 2001.[13] In 2002, his performance as Curly McLain in the Broadway production of Oklahoma! received critical acclaim, with Wilson being nominated for the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical and the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical for the second time each.[14][15] He won critical acclaim for his performance as the closeted Mormon Republican Joe Pitt in Mike Nichols' 2003 HBO drama miniseries Angels in America, receiving nominations for both the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Series, Miniseries or Television Film and the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie.[16][17][18]
Early film work
[edit]In 2004, Wilson made his first film appearance in The Alamo, playing William B. Travis. That same year, he co-starred in the musical film The Phantom of the Opera as Viscount Raoul de Chagny.[19] The following year, he starred alongside Elliot Page in the psychological thriller film Hard Candy, portraying a pedophile named Jeff Kohlver.[20]
In 2006, Wilson starred as Brad Adamson in Todd Field's Little Children.[21] Also in 2006, he appeared in the Golden Globe Award-nominated Running with Scissors as Michael Shephard, which was directed by Ryan Murphy and produced by Brad Pitt. In 2007, he starred as Brian Callahan in the independent film Purple Violets, which was written and directed by Edward Burns.[22] In 2008, he starred in Neil LaBute's Lakeview Terrace.[citation needed]
Wilson played Dan Dreiberg / Nite Owl II in Zack Snyder's 2009 film adaptation of the graphic novel Watchmen, gaining 25 pounds for the role after filming flashback scenes as the slimmer Nite Owl II.[23] This film reunited Wilson with his Little Children co-star, Jackie Earle Haley. On October 19, 2010, in Yankee Stadium, he sang "God Bless America" during the seventh-inning stretch of Game 4 of the American League Championship Series between the Texas Rangers and the New York Yankees.[24] On November 20, 2010, in Yankee Stadium, he sang the United States National Anthem before the first football game in the new stadium, played between Army and Notre Dame.[25]
International breakthrough
[edit]Wilson played the primary antagonist Lynch in 2010's The A-Team, and co-starred with Rose Byrne in James Wan's horror film Insidious.[19] He returned for the latter film's sequel, Insidious: Chapter 2, which was released in 2013.[26] In 2013, Wilson portrayed the paranormal investigator Ed Warren, alongside Vera Farmiga starring as his wife Lorraine, in the horror film The Conjuring.[27] The film was critically acclaimed, becoming one of the highest grossing horror films of all time.[28] Wilson reprised the role in the film's sequel, The Conjuring 2, released on June 10, 2016.[29]
In January 2014, Wilson was announced to portray the lead role, Lou Solverson, in the second season of FX's anthology series Fargo. He was nominated for the 2015 Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Miniseries or Television Film for his performance.[30] In March 2014, Wilson was cast in an unspecified role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film Ant-Man,[31] but later left the film due to scheduling conflicts brought upon by multiple delays with the film's production.[32] That same year, he was cast as Arthur O'Dwyer in the Western film Bone Tomahawk, opposite Kurt Russell and Matthew Fox.[33]
Ongoing success and directorial debut
[edit]In 2016, he co-starred in John Lee Hancock's biopic The Founder, as Rollie Smith, based on the life of McDonald's fast food restaurants' founder Ray Kroc.[34] In August 2016, Barbra Streisand released the album Encore: Movie Partners Sing Broadway, on which she and Wilson duet the song "Loving You" from the Stephen Sondheim musical Passion.[35]
In 2018, Wilson co-starred in Jaume Collet-Serra's action thriller The Commuter, reuniting with The Conjuring co-star Farmiga, and portraying a trusted friend of Liam Neeson's character.[36] Also that year, he portrayed Orm Marius / Ocean Master in the DC Extended Universe film Aquaman, directed by long-time collaborator James Wan.[37] Wilson reprised his role in the 2023 sequel film Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.
On November 8, 2019, Roland Emmerich's World War II film Midway, was released, starring Wilson along with Ed Skrein, Mandy Moore, Luke Evans, Aaron Eckhart, Nick Jonas, Dennis Quaid and Woody Harrelson.[38][39][40][41][42][43] In June 2020, Wilson signed on to Emmerich's Moonfall, which was released in 2022.[44][45]
Announced in October 2020, Wilson made his directorial debut with Insidious: The Red Door, released July 7, 2023, in the US, serving as a direct sequel to Insidious: Chapter 2 with both Wilson and Ty Simpkins reprising their roles. Scott Teems wrote the script based on a story by Leigh Whannell. Whannell, James Wan, Jason Blum, and Oren Peli will produce the film.[46][47][48] He also contributed vocals to the end credits song "Stay" on the film's soundtrack, collaborating with Swedish metal band Ghost, who he is a fan of.[49]
Charity work
[edit]In May 2012, the band VanWilson (consisting of Wilson on vocals and drums and his brothers on guitar and vocals) performed a benefit concert for Southeastern Guide Dogs' Paws For Patriots program in St. Petersburg, Florida. They raised $30,000 for the program and were honored by the organization by having puppies named after them.[50] The brothers have also performed benefit concerts for All Children's Hospital and the St. Petersburg Free Clinic.[51]
Personal life
[edit]Wilson married Polish-American actress and fellow Carnegie Mellon alumna Dagmara Domińczyk in 2005.[52] They have two sons, born in 2006 and 2009,[53] and reside in Montclair, New Jersey. Patrick’s youngest son Kassian has appeared in a few films, including Prodigal Son as Young Malcolm, and a cameo in Insidious: The Red Door.[54] His sister-in-law is actress Marika Domińczyk, who is married to actor and director Scott Foley.
In April 2012, Wilson gave the keynote address for his alma mater, Carnegie Mellon University, in which he spoke of his memories from childhood and through his career.[55]
Filmography
[edit]Film
[edit]| † | Denotes film or TV productions that have not yet been released |
Television
[edit]| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Angels in America | Joe Pitt | 6 episodes; Online Film & Television Association Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture or Miniseries Nominated—Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Series, Miniseries or Television Film Nominated—Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie Nominated—Satellite Award for Best Supporting Actor – Series, Miniseries or Television Film |
| 2009 | American Dad! | Jim (voice) | Episode: "Wife Insurance" |
| 2011–2012 | A Gifted Man | Dr. Michael Holt | 16 episodes |
| 2013, 2017 | Girls | Joshua | 2 episodes; Nominated—Critics Choice Television Award for Best Guest Performer in a Comedy Series Nominated—Gold Derby Award for Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series |
| 2015 | Fargo | Lou Solverson | 10 episodes; Nominated—Critics Choice Television Award for Best Actor in a Movie/Miniseries Nominated—Gold Derby Award for Best Actor in a Television Movie/Miniseries Nominated—Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Miniseries or Television Film Nominated—IGN Summer Movie Award for Best Television Actor Nominated—Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Series |
| 2019 | The Other Two | Himself | Episode: "Chase Shoots a Music Video" |
| 2022 | Teen Titans Go! | Himself (voice) | Episode: "365!" |
| Little Demon | Everette (voice) | Episode: "Everybody's Dying for the Weekend" | |
| TBA | Cape Fear † | Tom Bowden | Miniseries |
Video games
[edit]| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Watchmen: The End Is Nigh | Nite Owl II (voice) |
Stage
[edit]| Year | Title | Role | Category | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 | The Secret Garden | Lieutenant Shaw | Regional | Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera[56] |
| The Most Happy Fella | Clem | Regional | Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera[57] | |
| Cabaret | Singing Waiter | Regional | Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera[58] | |
| Miss Saigon | Marine / Slater
u/s Chris Scott |
U.S. national tour | ||
| 1996 | Carousel | Billy Bigelow | ||
| 1997 | Lucky in the Rain | Henderson Booth | Regional | Goodspeed Musicals[59] |
| Harmony | Erwin "Chopin" Bootz | Regional | ||
| 1999 | Bright Lights, Big City | Jamie Conway | Off-Broadway | Nominated—Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical |
| Romeo and Juliet: The Musical | Romeo | Regional | Ordway Music Theater[60] | |
| Sweet Bird of Youth | Chance Wayne | Regional | La Jolla Playhouse[61] | |
| 2000 | Tenderloin | Tommy Howatt | Off-Broadway | Encores! |
| 2000–2001 | The Full Monty | Jerry Lukowski | Broadway | Nominated—Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical Nominated—Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical |
| 2002 | Oklahoma! | Curly McLain | ||
| 2006 | Barefoot in the Park | Paul Bratter | ||
| 2008–2009 | All My Sons | Chris Keller | ||
| 2014 | Guys and Dolls | Sky Masterson | Concert | Carnegie Hall |
| 2016 | White Rabbit Red Rabbit | performer | Off-Broadway | Westside Theatre[62] |
| 2017 | Brigadoon | Tommy Albright | Off-Broadway | Special Event |
| 2023 | Gutenberg! The Musical! | Producer | Broadway | One night only |
| 2025 | Big Fish | Edward Bloom | Workshop | [63] |
Audio work
[edit]Cast recordings
[edit]- Allegro (2009; studio cast recording)
- Bright Lights, Big City (2005; studio cast recording)
- The Full Monty (2001; original Broadway cast recording)
- Dreamgirls in Concert (as film executive; 2001 concert cast recording)
- Tenderloin (2000; Encores! concert cast recording)
- Lucky in the Rain (2000; studio cast recording)
- Terrence Mann's Romeo & Juliet: The Musical from William Shakespeare (1999)
- Brigadoon (2017; New York City Center cast recording)
Soundtracks
[edit]- The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
- Insidious: The Red Door (2023)
Audiobooks
[edit]- The Garden of Eden by Ernest Hemingway (2006) (Simon & Schuster)
- The Ruins by Scott Smith (2006) (Simon & Schuster)
Miscellaneous
[edit]- Every Day Is a Holiday (2009 Christmas album) by Mary McBride
- Lucky (2004 CD) by Gary Kline
- Broadway Cares: Home for the Holidays (2001 CD)
- The Dreams in You (2001 CD)
- Encore: Movie Partners Sing Broadway (2016 CD) by Barbra Streisand
- Stay - Ghost (2023 CD)
References
[edit]- ^ Oh, Sheryl (August 8, 2018). "'Insidious' and 'The Conjuring' Star Patrick Wilson Finds His Next Horror Project". Film School Rejects.
- ^ "In Praise of Patrick Wilson, "The Conjuring" Scream King". The New York Times. June 6, 2021. Retrieved June 8, 2021.
- ^ "Patrick Wilson's Lair: News Articles". PatrickWilson.org. Archived from the original on December 15, 2003.
- ^ "Obits – Carol Wilson". Johnson City Press. Archived from the original on September 4, 2014. Retrieved June 15, 2014.
- ^ Persall, Steve (April 29, 2009). "Actor Patrick Wilson returns home to St. Petersburg for the Sunscreen Film Festival". Tampa Bay Times. Archived from the original on November 3, 2013. Retrieved April 15, 2014.
- ^ "Patrick J. Wilson (A 1995)". March 2023.
- ^ Panarello, Joseph F. (November 24, 2004). "Dinner With Patrick Wilson – A Conversation with One of Broadway's Favorite Leading Men". Broadway World. Archived from the original on September 24, 2015. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
- ^ Winer, Laurie (July 12, 1996). "'Carousel's' Spin on Circle of Life". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on March 7, 2016. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
- ^ Isherwood, Charles (October 27, 2000). "Review: 'The Full Monty'". Variety. Archived from the original on March 5, 2016. Retrieved December 10, 2017.
- ^ "Nominees, Some Returning, For the 2001 Tony Awards". The New York Times. May 8, 2001. Archived from the original on March 9, 2016. Retrieved February 19, 2017.
- ^ Jones, Kenneth (May 20, 2001). "2001 Drama Desk Winners Include Producers, Proof and Mnemonic". Playbill. Archived from the original on September 24, 2015. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
- ^ Panarello, Joseph F. (November 24, 2004). "Dinner With Patrick Wilson – A Conversation with One of Broadway's Favorite Leading Men". Broadway World. Archived from the original on July 8, 2011. Retrieved October 19, 2010.
- ^ Boedeker, Hal (December 26, 2001). "Kennedy Honors Lift Up Nation's Heart". Orlando Sentinel. Archived from the original on November 19, 2015. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
- ^ "THEATER/THE TONY AWARDS; In the Running". The New York Times. May 19, 2002. Archived from the original on March 8, 2016. Retrieved February 19, 2017.
- ^ Simonson, Robert (May 14, 2002). "Foster, Wilson and Scott Join Performers on Drama Desk Ceremony, May 19". Playbill. Archived from the original on July 6, 2015.
- ^ "Golden Globes 2004: The nominees". BBC News. December 18, 2003. Archived from the original on September 1, 2006. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
- ^ "Complete list of primetime Emmy nominations". USA Today. July 15, 2004.
- ^ Voss, Brandon (October 13, 2010). "Patrick Wilson: Patrick's Day". The Advocate. Archived from the original on March 4, 2015. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
- ^ a b Turek, Ryan (June 3, 2010). "Exclusive Set Report: Patrick Wilson Talks Insidious". Shock Till You Drop. Archived from the original on June 5, 2010. Retrieved June 5, 2010.
- ^ Hernandez, Ernio (April 14, 2006). "Stage Vets Patrick Wilson and Sandra Oh Star in "Hard Candy" Film, Opens April 14". Playbill. Archived from the original on September 24, 2015. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
- ^ Balfour, Brad (October 6, 2006). "LITTLE CHILDREN: An Interview with Kate Winslet and Patrick Wilson". Blackfilm.com.
- ^ "Purple Violets (2007)". Internet Movie Database. February 20, 2009. Archived from the original on April 16, 2018. Retrieved July 1, 2018.
- ^ Amsden, David (March 1, 2009). "Patrick Wilson, Superstar". New York. Retrieved April 14, 2009.
- ^ "God Bless Patrick Wilson! The Hunky Broadway Alum Wows the Crowd at Yankee Stadium". Broadway.com. October 22, 2010. Archived from the original on September 23, 2015. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
- ^ Spunberg, Adam (November 20, 2010). "Notre Dame trumps Army again at Stadium". Pinstripe Bowl. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
- ^ Kit, Borys (November 19, 2012). "Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne Coming Back for 'Insidious' Sequel". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on September 24, 2015. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
- ^ Kroll, Justin (January 20, 2012). "Farmiga, Wilson called to 'Conjuring'". Variety. Archived from the original on April 15, 2017. Retrieved December 10, 2017.
- ^ "The Conjuring (2013)". Box Office Mojo. Archived from the original on September 10, 2013. Retrieved October 4, 2014.
- ^ White, James (February 25, 2014). "Patrick Wilson & Vera Farmiga Officially Back For More Conjuring". Empire. Archived from the original on September 18, 2015. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
- ^ "Patrick Wilson Ted Danson & Jean Smart to Star in Season 2 of 'Fargo'". FX. January 8, 2014. Archived from the original on April 13, 2016. Retrieved January 8, 2014.
- ^ "Patrick Wilson confirms 'Ant-Man' role". NME. March 10, 2014. Archived from the original on May 8, 2014. Retrieved May 7, 2014.
- ^ Ford, Rebecca (July 25, 2014). "Comic-Con: Patrick Wilson the Latest to Leave Marvel's 'Ant-Man'". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on August 29, 2015. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
- ^ Kroll, Justin (September 24, 2014). "Matthew Fox and Patrick Wilson Join Indie 'Bone Tomahawk'". Variety. Archived from the original on August 10, 2016. Retrieved December 10, 2017.
- ^ Hipes, Patrick (June 26, 2015). "John Carroll Lynch On 'The Founder' Menu; Gwendoline Christie Joins 'Swallows & Amazons'". Deadline Hollywood. Archived from the original on July 13, 2016. Retrieved August 24, 2016.
- ^ Gans, Andrew (June 10, 2016). "Hugh Jackman, Patrick Wilson, Jamie Foxx Join Streisand on New CD; Listen to "At the Ballet" Track". Playbill. Archived from the original on August 28, 2016. Retrieved August 24, 2016.
- ^ McNary, Dave (August 23, 2016). "Patrick Wilson Boards Liam Neeson's Thriller 'The Commuter'". Variety. Archived from the original on August 24, 2016. Retrieved August 23, 2016.
- ^ Fleming, Mike Jr. (December 12, 2016). "Patrick Wilson To Play 'Aquaman's Evil Half-Brother ORM". Deadline Hollywood. Archived from the original on December 13, 2016. Retrieved December 13, 2016.
- ^ Donnelly, Matt (October 31, 2019). "Roland Emmerich Just Made a $100 Million Indie Film. Will It Work?". Variety. Retrieved October 31, 2019.
- ^ Fleming, Mike Jr. (May 23, 2017). "Bona Film Group Stakes $80M On Roland Emmerich/Mark Gordon WWII Battle Pic 'Midway:' Cannes". Deadline. Retrieved May 24, 2017.
- ^ Wiseman, Andreas (May 2, 2018). "Roland Emmerich's WWII Epic 'Midway' Sets Sail With Woody Harrelson, Mandy Moore & AGC Studios — Cannes Hot Pic". Deadline. Retrieved May 4, 2018.
- ^ Kit, Borys (July 3, 2018). "Luke Evans Joins Roland Emmerich's Naval Action Movie 'Midway' (Exclusive)". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved July 6, 2018.
- ^ Marc, Christopher (July 24, 2018). "Roland Emmerich's WWII Epic 'Midway' Adds 'The Guest' Cinematographer - GWW". thegww.com. Retrieved July 24, 2018.
- ^ D'Alessandro, Anthony (September 5, 2018). "Roland Emmerich's WWII Epic 'Midway' To Open Veterans Day Weekend 2019". Deadline. Retrieved September 6, 2018.
- ^ Wiseman, Andreas (October 26, 2020). "Moonfall: Donald Sutherland, Eme Ikwuakor & Financier SPG3 Join $100M+ Roland Emmerich Sci-Fi Movie, Shoot Underway In Montreal". Deadline. Retrieved October 29, 2020.
- ^ Hipes, Patrick (May 26, 2021). "Roland Emmerich's 'Moonfall' Finally Lands A Release Date". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved May 26, 2021.
- ^ Rubin, Rebecca (October 29, 2020). "Patrick Wilson to Direct Insidious 5". Variety. Retrieved October 29, 2020.
- ^ Squires, John (October 29, 2020). "Patrick Wilson is Directing the Fifth Installment of the Insidious Franchise!". Bloody Disgusting. Retrieved October 29, 2020.
- ^ D'Alessandro, Anthony (October 29, 2020). "Insidious 5 Moving Forward With Patrick Wilson Making Feature Directorial Debut – BlumFest". Deadline. Retrieved October 29, 2020.
- ^ "Patrick Wilson talks final 'Insidious,' 'Aquaman 2' and his 'ridiculous' rock-star moment". USA TODAY.
- ^ Cabrera, Cloe (May 24, 2012). "Band of brothers to rock for veterans". The Tampa Tribune. Archived from the original on July 6, 2015. Retrieved July 5, 2015.
- ^ Starling, Amanda C. (January 4, 2013). "Tampa Bay: Here come The Wilson Van...to the Hard Rock this weekend!". Florida State University and Uloop. Archived from the original on July 6, 2015. Retrieved July 5, 2015.
- ^ Meadows, Bob (March 17, 2009). "Patrick Wilson and His Wife Are Expecting Baby No. 2". People. Archived from the original on March 20, 2009. Retrieved March 17, 2009.
- ^ Oaterhout, Jacob E. (August 10, 2009). "Patrick Wilson and wife Dagmara Dominczyk welcome their second son". New York Daily News. Archived from the original on July 7, 2015. Retrieved July 5, 2015.
- ^ "A Modern Immigrant Finds the Spotlight". The New York Times. June 16, 2013.
- ^ "Press Release: Actor Patrick Wilson Returns to Alma Mater Carnegie Mellon University to Give 2012 Commencement Keynote". Carnegie Mellon University. April 27, 2012. Archived from the original on July 6, 2015. Retrieved July 5, 2015.
- ^ "The Secret Garden - 1995". Artist Database. Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera. Retrieved October 3, 2025.
- ^ "The Most Happy Fella - 1995". Artist Database. Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera. Retrieved October 3, 2025.
- ^ "Cabaret - 1995". Artist Database. Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera. Retrieved October 3, 2025.
- ^ Taylor, Markland (September 1, 1997). ""Lucky in the Rain"". Variety. Retrieved October 2, 2025.
- ^ Ritter, Peter (August 23, 1999). "Romeo and Juliet: The Musical". Variety. Retrieved October 2, 2025.
- ^ McBride, Murdoch (October 12, 1999). "La Jolla Sweet Bird, with M. Emmet Walsh, Begins Oct. 12". Playbill. Retrieved October 2, 2025.
- ^ "See Patrick Wilson Step into White Rabbit Red Rabbit". Playbill. March 22, 2016. Retrieved October 3, 2025.
- ^ Patrick Wilson, Jordan Donica Leading Industry Reading of Revised, Broadway-Aimed Big Fish
External links
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Patrick Wilson.
- Patrick Wilson at IMDb
- Patrick Wilson at the Internet Broadway Database
- Patrick Wilson at the Internet Off-Broadway Database (archived)
Patrick Wilson
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Early years
Early life
Patrick Wilson was born Patrick Joseph Wilson on July 3, 1973, in Norfolk, Virginia, as the youngest of three sons to John Franklin Wilson, a longtime news anchor at WTVT in Tampa, Florida, and Mary Kay Wilson, who was a professional vocalist and voice teacher.[4][5][8] The family relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, when Wilson was 18 months old, remaining there until he was approximately 5½ years old, before moving to St. Petersburg, Florida, where he spent the majority of his childhood in the Shore Acres neighborhood.[9][5] His parents' professions deeply influenced his early environment; they frequently performed together, singing love songs to one another, which fostered a household appreciative of the arts and encouraged Wilson's own inclinations toward performance.[9][5] Wilson's two older brothers, Paul—an actor and media company owner—and Mark, who followed their father into broadcasting as a news anchor at FOX 13—contributed to a competitive yet supportive family dynamic centered on achievement and creativity.[5][10] From a young age, Wilson engaged in choir, youth group activities, sports, and musical instruments, with his mother particularly promoting piano lessons and vocal training that sparked his passion for singing and acting.[9][5]Education
Wilson attended Shorecrest Preparatory School, an arts-focused institution in St. Petersburg, Florida, graduating in 1991. The school's emphasis on performing arts allowed him to develop his interest in theater and music early on, drawing from his family's musical heritage—his mother was a professional singer and voice teacher.[11][12] He pursued higher education at Carnegie Mellon University, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Drama from the School of Drama in 1995. The program's intensive curriculum, known for its rigorous training in acting, voice, and movement, provided Wilson with foundational skills in musical theater and classical techniques through participation in student productions and collaboration with faculty.[13]Career
Theatre work
Wilson began his professional theatre career in 1995 as an understudy for the role of Chris in the first national tour of Miss Saigon. The following year, he took on the lead role of Billy Bigelow in the national tour of the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Carousel, performing from 1996 to 1997 and honing his skills in dramatic musical storytelling. His Broadway debut came in 1999 with a featured role in the short-lived musical revue The Gershwins' Fascinating Rhythm.[14] That same year, Wilson starred as Jamie Conway in the off-Broadway premiere of Bright Lights, Big City at the Douglas Fairbanks Theater, earning a Drama League Award and a Drama Desk Award nomination for his portrayal of the ambitious advertising executive grappling with personal loss.[15] His training at Carnegie Mellon University, where he earned a B.F.A. in drama, provided the foundational vocal and acting techniques that distinguished his early performances. Wilson achieved breakthrough recognition on Broadway in 2000 with his Tony-nominated portrayal of Jerry Lukowski, an unemployed steelworker, in the musical The Full Monty, which ran at the Longacre Theatre through 2002. He received his second Tony nomination in 2002 for playing the charismatic rancher Curly McLain in the revival of Oklahoma! at the Martin Beck Theatre, directed by Trevor Nunn and choreographed by Susan Stroman. These roles highlighted his baritone voice and emotional depth in ensemble-driven musicals. By 2005, Wilson's stage work had encompassed over a dozen credits across tours, off-Broadway, and Broadway, establishing a strong base in musical theatre that informed his later dramatic versatility, including influences seen in adaptations like the HBO miniseries Angels in America, where stage-trained performers brought live theatre intensity to screen roles.[14]Television roles
Wilson's breakthrough on television came with his leading role as Joe Pitt in the 2003 HBO miniseries Angels in America, directed by Mike Nichols and adapted from Tony Kushner's Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Portraying a closeted gay Mormon attorney torn between his repressed desires, his marriage, and his loyalty to the ruthless Roy Cohn (Al Pacino), Wilson delivered a critically acclaimed performance that highlighted his range in dramatic roles. For this work, he earned a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie and a Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Series, Miniseries, or Television Film.[16] After several guest appearances in procedural dramas such as CSI: Miami (2003) and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Wilson took on his first series regular role as Dr. Michael Holt in the CBS supernatural medical drama A Gifted Man (2011–2012). As a brilliant but egotistical New York surgeon haunted by visions of his deceased ex-wife (Jennifer Ehle), who urges him toward greater empathy, Wilson anchored the series through 16 episodes, bringing emotional depth to a character grappling with personal loss and ethical dilemmas in the medical field.[17][18] He also appeared in two episodes of HBO's Girls (2012) as Joshua, the affable doctor neighbor to Lena Dunham's Hannah Horvath.[17] Wilson earned further acclaim for his role as Lou Solverson in the second season of FX's anthology series Fargo (2015), set in 1979 Minnesota. As a principled state trooper balancing family life with his wife Betsy (Kirsten Dunst) amid escalating crime and UFO intrigue, his nuanced depiction of quiet heroism and vulnerability was a standout, contributing to the season's high praise for its ensemble and storytelling.[17][19] More recently, Wilson guest-starred in the 2019 reboot of The Twilight Zone on CBS All Access, leading the episode "The Comedian" as Sam Miller, a down-on-his-luck stand-up comic who strikes a Faustian bargain for success. His performance blended dark humor with psychological tension, earning positive reviews for capturing the episode's satirical edge on fame and morality. Over his career, Wilson has amassed approximately 15 television credits, predominantly in dramatic and supernatural narratives, where he is often lauded for his ability to infuse complex characters with emotional authenticity and subtle intensity.[17]Film roles
Wilson's film debut came in the 2002 drama My Sister's Keeper, followed by supporting roles in The Alamo (2004) as William B. Travis and his breakthrough as Raoul in the film adaptation of The Phantom of the Opera (2004). His first leading role arrived in the psychological thriller Hard Candy (2005), where he portrayed Jeff Kohlver, a photographer ensnared in a tense confrontation with a teenage vigilante, marking a shift toward more intense character-driven performances. This was followed by Little Children (2006), playing Brad Adamson, a frustrated stay-at-home father in a suburban affair drama opposite Kate Winslet, which earned critical acclaim for his nuanced depiction of domestic discontent and contributed to the film's multiple award nominations, including Satellite Award recognition for his performance.[20] Wilson's career escalated through major horror franchises, where he became synonymous with tormented everyman roles. He starred as Josh Lambert in the Insidious series (2010–2023), appearing in all five films including Insidious (2010), Insidious: Chapter 2 (2013), Insidious: Chapter 3 (2015), Insidious: The Last Key (2018), and Insidious: The Red Door (2023), portraying a father grappling with astral projection and demonic hauntings that grossed over $700 million worldwide collectively. Similarly, he embodied paranormal investigator Ed Warren in The Conjuring universe (2013–2025), featuring in The Conjuring (2013), The Conjuring 2 (2016), The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021), and the concluding The Conjuring: Last Rites (2025), roles that highlighted his ability to convey quiet resolve amid supernatural terror and helped the franchise exceed $2 billion in global box office earnings. Transitioning to blockbusters, Wilson took on the vigilante Dan Dreiberg / Nite Owl II in Zack Snyder's Watchmen (2009), a deconstructed superhero adaptation where his portrayal of a reluctant hero added emotional depth to the ensemble cast. He later played the antagonistic Orm Marius / [Ocean Master](/page/Ocean Master) in Aquaman (2018) and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023), bringing physicality and familial conflict to the DC Extended Universe underwater saga that amassed over $1.1 billion. Additional high-profile action roles included intelligence officer Edwin Layton in the World War II epic Midway (2019), showcasing his versatility in ensemble-driven spectacles. In recent years, Wilson has balanced franchise commitments with independent projects, appearing as Frank Hewitt in the ensemble comedy-drama Jay Kelly (2025), directed by Noah Baumbach and starring George Clooney, which explores themes of celebrity and self-discovery. He also starred as Scott Miller in Millers in Marriage (2025), a dramedy by Ed Burns examining marital strains among middle-aged couples. Across more than 50 film credits, Wilson's work predominantly spans horror, action, and drama genres, consistently emphasizing psychologically complex characters over action-hero archetypes.[6]Directing ventures
Wilson made his directorial debut with Insidious: The Red Door (2023), the fifth installment in the Insidious horror franchise, where he also reprised his starring role as Josh Lambert.[21] The film, produced by Blumhouse Productions and Sony Pictures, had a production budget of $16 million and grossed $189.3 million worldwide, marking a significant commercial success that underscored the viability of his transition to directing.[21][22] Drawing from his extensive acting experience in the horror genre, Wilson's approach to directing emphasized a hands-on style, focusing on emotional depth and character-driven scares influenced by his collaborations with filmmaker James Wan, the franchise's creator and producer on The Red Door.[23][24] Wan provided guidance during production, advising on technical aspects and narrative pacing, which allowed Wilson to blend franchise traditions with personal touches, such as exploring familial trauma more introspectively.[25] As of 2025, Wilson has not directed any additional feature films, short films, or television episodes beyond this debut. Critics praised Wilson's direction for sustaining the series' atmospheric tension through effective long takes and a balance of jump scares with character development, while maintaining the established tone of supernatural dread.[26][27] The film's box office performance further validated his directorial capabilities, positioning him as a promising voice in horror filmmaking. Following the release, Wilson expressed strong interest in pursuing more directing opportunities, stating that he spends much of his time considering his next project, potentially in horror or other genres.[28]Recognition
Awards
Patrick Wilson has received a number of awards throughout his career, primarily recognizing his performances in theater, television, and film, with a particular emphasis on his contributions to musical theater early on and horror genres later. His wins highlight his versatility, from off-Broadway productions to critically acclaimed miniseries and franchise films. Although he has earned numerous nominations for prestigious honors like the Tony Awards, his actual wins number three major ones as of 2025, spanning different mediums.[29]| Year | Award | Category | Work |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Drama League Award | Distinguished Performance | Bright Lights, Big City (off-Broadway musical)[15] |
| 2003 | OFTA Television Award | Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture or Miniseries | Angels in America (HBO miniseries)[30] |
| 2024 | Against the Current Award | Achievement in Independent Cinema | Career honor at Mastercard OFF CAMERA Festival[31] |
Nominations
Wilson earned his first major industry recognition with a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of Jerry Lukowski in the Broadway production of The Full Monty in 2001.[32] The following year, he received another Tony nomination in the same category for playing Curly McLain in the revival of Oklahoma!.[32] On television, Wilson was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie for his role as Joe Pitt in the HBO miniseries Angels in America in 2004, as well as Golden Globe Awards for Best Actor in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television in 2004 for the same role and in 2016 for Fargo Season 2.[33][16] In film, Wilson's performance as Brad Adamson in Little Children (2006) generated significant Academy Award buzz, though he did not receive a formal nomination; the film itself earned a Critics' Choice Award nomination for Best Picture.[20] He received a Scream Award nomination for Best Horror Actor for Insidious (2011), a Fangoria Chainsaw Award nomination for Best Actor for Insidious: Chapter 2 (2014), and a Saturn Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor on Television for Fargo Season 2 (2015).[29] Wilson has accumulated over 20 nominations across his career from 2001 to 2025, with notable genre-specific honors in horror. More recently, his directorial debut Insidious: The Red Door (2023) was nominated for Best Horror Film at the 51st Saturn Awards in 2024.[34]Philanthropy
Other charitable efforts
Wilson has actively supported arts-related charities through performances and donations. In 2006, he performed at the 14th Annual Rockers on Broadway benefit concert, which raised funds for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS to provide services for those affected by HIV/AIDS and other illnesses.[35] He also starred in a 2014 gala benefit concert of Guys and Dolls at Carnegie Hall, benefiting the same organization.[36] Additionally, through the Wilson Family Foundation, co-founded with his brothers in 2015, Wilson has promoted the arts by funding scholarships for music, theater, and visual arts programs, raising over $200,000 for local initiatives by 2022.[37][12] In environmental causes, Wilson partnered with Oceana in 2018 to advocate for ocean conservation, leveraging his role as Orm in Aquaman to encourage public participation in protecting marine ecosystems through a public service announcement calling individuals to become "Ocean Heroes." This effort highlighted Oceana's victories in global ocean policy and pollution reduction.[38] Wilson's community work extends to health and education initiatives. He serves as a sponsor for the Love Quilt Project, which provides handmade quilts to children facing hardships, including illness and displacement, while promoting educational workshops on creativity and kindness; in one such program, he taught children in New Jersey to create quilt squares for global distribution.[39] The Wilson Family Foundation further supports children's education through arts scholarships and aids health-related causes by assisting veterans and first responders with resources for physical and mental well-being.[37] In 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, he promoted relief efforts by directing donations to organizations addressing immediate community needs, such as animal welfare impacts tied to broader humanitarian aid.[40] More recently, Wilson has auctioned personal film memorabilia to benefit charitable causes; in 2023, he offered a signed clapboard from Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom to support the Wilson Family Foundation's arts education programs.[41] Overall, his contributions span over five organizations, including Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Oceana, the Love Quilt Project, the Trevor Project, and the Human Rights Campaign, with a focus on advancing education, health access, and community resilience.[42]Personal life
Family
Patrick Wilson married actress Dagmara Domińczyk on June 18, 2005.[43] The couple first met in the late 1990s as drama students at Carnegie Mellon University.[7] Wilson and Domińczyk have two sons: Kalin Patrick Wilson, born on June 23, 2006, and Kassian McCarrell Wilson, born on August 9, 2009.[44] Wilson's younger son, Kassian, has also acted in films and television, including a role in Insidious: The Red Door (2023).[45] The family has navigated the challenges of Hollywood by prioritizing a grounded home life in Montclair, New Jersey, where Wilson often returns between film projects to focus on parenting.[46] The family maintains a strong emphasis on privacy, rarely sharing details about their children publicly and limiting their appearances at events to occasional red-carpet moments, such as the 2023 New York City premiere of Insidious: The Red Door, where Wilson appeared with Domińczyk and both sons.[47]Interests and residence
Wilson is an avid runner and fitness enthusiast, having completed four full marathons and three half-marathons, which he describes as "athletes' meditation" for mental clarity and reflection.[48][49] He incorporates CrossFit into his routine to maintain physical conditioning, particularly around demanding film roles.[48] In addition to acting, Wilson pursues music as a hobby, performing with his brothers in the band The Wilson Van and playing guitar and drums in various projects, including on-set musical moments during film productions.[48][50] Wilson resides primarily in Montclair, New Jersey, with his family, and occasionally stays in New York City for theater-related work, including co-owning the Word Bookstore in nearby Jersey City.[51][52][9] He maintains a commitment to work-life balance by prioritizing family time over career demands, stating that roles must fit his responsibilities as a husband and father.[53] Wilson enjoys cooking, particularly grilling and preparing Southern dishes like cornbread in a cast-iron skillet, and incorporates family travel into his lifestyle when possible.[48][9]Filmography
Film
- 2004 The Alamo as William B. Travis
- 2004 The Phantom of the Opera as Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny
- 2005 Hard Candy as Jeff Kohlver
- 2006 Little Children as Brad Adamson
- 2006 Running with Scissors as Michael
- 2007 Brothers Three: An American Gothic as Peter
- 2007 Evening as Harris Arden
- 2007 Purple Violets as Brian Callahan
- 2008 Lakeview Terrace as Chris Mattson
- 2008 Passengers as Eric
- 2008 Life in Flight as Will Sargent[54]
- 2009 Watchmen as Dan Dreiberg / Nite Owl II
- 2010 The A-Team as Lynch
- 2010 Barry Munday as Barry Munday
- 2010 Insidious as Josh Lambert
- 2010 Morning Glory as Adam Bennett
- 2010 The Switch as Roland
- 2011 The Ledge as Joe
- 2011 Young Adult as Buddy Slade
- 2013 The Conjuring as Ed Warren
- 2013 Insidious: Chapter 2 as Josh Lambert
- 2014 Big Stone Gap as Jack MacChesney
- 2014 Jack Strong as Daniel
- 2014 Let's Kill Ward's Wife as David (also producer)
- 2014 Space Station 76 as Capt. Glenn
- 2014 Stretch as Stretch
- 2015 Bone Tomahawk as Arthur O'Dwyer
- 2015 Home Sweet Hell as Don Champagne
- 2015 Zipper as Sam Ellis
- 2016 A Kind of Murder as Walter Stackhouse
- 2016 Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice as U.S. President (voice)
- 2016 The Conjuring 2 as Ed Warren
- 2016 The Founder as Rollie Smith
- 2016 The Hollow Point as Wallace
- 2018 Aquaman as King Orm / Ocean Master
- 2018 Insidious: The Last Key as Josh Lambert
- 2018 The Commuter as Alex Murphy
- 2019 Annabelle Comes Home as Ed Warren
- 2019 In the Tall Grass as Ross Humboldt
- 2019 Midway as Lt. Cmdr. Edwin T. Layton
- 2021 The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It as Ed Warren
- 2022 Moonfall as Brian Harper
- 2023 Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom as Orm Marius / Ocean Master
- 2023 Insidious: The Red Door as Josh Lambert (also director)
- 2025 Jay Kelly as Frank Hewitt
- 2025 Millers in Marriage as Scott[55]
- 2025 The Conjuring: Last Rites as Ed Warren
Television
Patrick Wilson's television career began with a breakout role in a high-profile miniseries and has since encompassed lead roles in drama series, guest appearances in comedies, and voice work in animated programs. His TV work often highlights his versatility, blending dramatic intensity with lighter comedic turns, though he has primarily focused on film projects in recent years.[1] In 2003, Wilson debuted on television as Joe Pitt, a repressed Mormon lawyer grappling with his sexuality and the AIDS crisis, in the HBO miniseries Angels in America, appearing in all six episodes directed by Mike Nichols. The role earned him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Miniseries or Television Film and marked his transition from Broadway to screen acting.[56] He provided a voice role in 2009 as Jim, a CIA colleague of Stan Smith, in the American Dad! episode "Wife Insurance" from season 4. From 2011 to 2012, Wilson starred as the titular Dr. Michael Holt, a brilliant but self-centered neurosurgeon haunted by visions of his deceased ex-wife, in the CBS medical drama A Gifted Man. He appeared in all 16 episodes of the series, which explored themes of redemption and the afterlife. In 2013, he guest-starred as Joshua, a handsome doctor who has a brief romantic encounter with the protagonist Hannah Horvath, in the Girls episode "One Man's Trash" from season 2. The appearance drew significant attention for its intimate portrayal of vulnerability.[57] Wilson portrayed Lou Solverson, a principled Minnesota state trooper investigating a series of crimes in 1979, in all 10 episodes of season 2 of the FX anthology series Fargo in 2015. His performance as the young version of a character previously played by Keith Carradine connected the season to the broader narrative universe and earned critical praise for its grounded heroism. In 2019, he appeared as himself in a meta cameo during a music video shoot in the The Other Two episode "Chase Shoots a Music Video" from season 1, poking fun at his celebrity status.[58] Also in 2019, Wilson played dual roles as struggling comedian Sam and his alter ego The Comedian in the The Twilight Zone episode "The Comedian" from the reboot series on CBS All Access. The anthology entry examined fame's dark side in a surreal horror context.[59] In 2022, he voiced Everett, a charming but oblivious suitor for the protagonist's mother, in the Little Demon episode "Everybody's Dying for the Weekend" from season 1 of the FXX animated series.[60] That same year, Wilson voiced himself in a self-referential cameo in the Teen Titans Go! episode "365!" from season 7, where the Titans seek celebrity endorsements for their milestone episode. As of November 2025, Wilson is set to star as Tom Bowden, a family attorney targeted by a vengeful ex-convict, in the upcoming Apple TV+ limited series Cape Fear, a reimagining of the classic thriller produced by Martin Scorsese. The series also features Javier Bardem as Max Cady and Amy Adams as Anna Bowden.[61]Video games
Patrick Wilson has made limited appearances in video games, primarily through voice work tied to his live-action film roles. In 2009, he provided the voice for Dan Dreiberg / Nite Owl II in Watchmen: The End Is Nigh, an episodic action game developed by Deadline Games as a prequel to the Watchmen film.[62] This performance allowed Wilson to reprise his cinematic portrayal, contributing to the game's narrative authenticity alongside co-star Jackie Earle Haley as Rorschach.[63] The role marked Wilson's sole major credit in interactive media, highlighting his selective involvement in gaming projects that extend his film characters into digital formats. While the game did not involve motion capture from Wilson, his voice work emphasized the character's introspective and heroic traits, aligning with the source material's themes. No additional video game roles, including motion capture or other voice performances, have been documented for Wilson as of 2025.Theatre
Patrick Wilson's theatre career encompasses a range of musicals and plays across touring, regional, off-Broadway, and Broadway stages, beginning with understudy and supporting roles in the 1990s and evolving into leading performances that earned him critical acclaim and award nominations.[64][65]| Year | Title | Role | Venue/Theatre | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1995–1996 | Miss Saigon | Marine (replacement); understudy for Chris Scott | National Tour | First professional credit; musical drama.[64] |
| 1996–1997 | Carousel | Billy Bigelow | National Tour | Revival musical; leading role.[64][65] |
| 1999 | The Gershwins' Fascinating Rhythm | Performer | Broadway Theatre, Broadway | Musical revue; debut Broadway production (short run, April–May).[64] |
| 1999 | Bright Lights, Big City | Jamie | Off-Broadway (various, including readings) | Original musical; Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Musical; also performed as Woody Mahoney in readings.[65] |
| 1999 | Romeo and Juliet | Romeo | Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, St. Paul, MN (regional) | World premiere musical adaptation.[65][6] |
| 2000 | The Full Monty | Jerry Lukowski | Old Globe Theatre, San Diego (regional, pre-Broadway) | World premiere; then transferred to Broadway.[65] |
| 2000–2001 | The Full Monty | Jerry Lukowski | Eugene O'Neill Theatre, Broadway | Original musical comedy; Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical; Drama Desk Award nomination.[64][65] |
| 2001 | Follies | Film Executive | New York City Center, New York (concert) | Benefit concert musical; also listed in Broadway contexts.[65] |
| 2001 | Dreamgirls | Film Executive | Ford Center for the Performing Arts, Broadway | One-night benefit concert.[64] |
| 2002 | Oklahoma! | Curly | Various (readings and Richard Rodgers tribute) | Preparation for Broadway revival; performed "Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'" at tribute.[64][65] |
| 2002 | Oklahoma! | Curly | Gershwin Theatre, Broadway | Revival musical; Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical; Drama Desk Award nomination.[64][65] |
| 2006 | Barefoot in the Park | Paul Bratter | Cort Theatre, Broadway | Revival comedy play.[64][65] |
| 2008–2009 | All My Sons | Chris Keller | Schoenfeld Theatre, Broadway | Revival drama; BroadwayWorld Award for Best Featured Actor.[64][65] |
| 2009 | Chance & Chemistry | Performer | Broadway (benefit) | One-night special event.[64] |
| 2016 | White Rabbit Red Rabbit | Performer | Westside Theatre, Off-Broadway | New York premiere; solo performance series.[65] |
| 2016 | The Lost Boys | (Role unspecified) | Off-Broadway (workshop/replacement) | Musical adaptation.[65] |
| 2017 | Brigadoon | Performer | New York City Center, Off-Broadway (Encores! concert) | Revival musical concert production.[65] |
| 2026 | The Lost Boys | Producer | (Broadway, upcoming) | Original musical; also potential performer.[64] |