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Xander Berkeley
Xander Berkeley
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Alexander Harper Berkeley (born December 16, 1955)[1] is an American actor. Since beginning his career in the early 1980s, he has appeared in over 200 film and television projects. His films include Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991), Candyman (1992), Barb Wire (1996), Air Force One (1997), Gattaca (1997), and Shanghai Noon (2000). He also appeared in the crime dramas L.A. Takedown (1989) and its remake Heat (1995), although he played a different character in each film. On television, he headlined the Citytv psychological thriller The Booth at the End (2010–2012) and was a series regular on the Fox action drama 24 (2001–2003) and The CW action thriller Nikita (2010–2012). As a guest star, Berkeley portrayed Sheriff Thomas McAllister on the CBS drama The Mentalist (2008–2013) and Gregory on the AMC post-apocalyptic horror The Walking Dead (2016–2018).

Key Information

Early life and education

[edit]

Berkeley was born in Brooklyn and raised in New Jersey. He is of English and Scottish descent.[2] He attended Hampshire College,[3] and worked in theaters at the Five Colleges, including Smith, Mount Holyoke, Amherst and the University of Massachusetts. He worked in regional and repertory theaters in addition to Off-Broadway in New York City. A casting agent spotted Berkeley in a play written by Reynolds Price called Early Dark and encouraged him to move to Hollywood.[4]

Career

[edit]
Berkeley and Sarah Clarke on the set of 24 in 2002

Berkeley began playing roles in 1981, with early appearances in M*A*S*H, Cagney & Lacey, Remington Steele, Miami Vice, Moonlighting, and The A-Team.[5] His later television roles included The X-Files,[5] CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, ER and Law & Order.

On screen, his first film role was as the adult version of Christopher Crawford, Christina Crawford's brother, in Mommie Dearest.[6] He has appeared in North Country,[6] Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Phoenix, Kick-Ass,[6] A Few Good Men, The Rookie, Candyman, Apollo 13, Leaving Las Vegas, Gattaca, The Rock, Air Force One, Sid and Nancy,[6] Amistad, Shanghai Noon,[6] Barb Wire[6] and Timecode. He appeared in the television film L.A. Takedown[6] in 1989 and its 1995 acclaimed theatrical remake Heat,[6] directed by Michael Mann. Several of his earlier roles were in films directed by Alex Cox.

In 2001, Berkeley became a recurring guest star (and later a series regular) on 24 in the role of George Mason, the head of the counter-terrorist unit.[7] He portrayed the mysterious John Smith on the CBS drama Jericho.

In 2010, he received one of his best-known roles, Percy Rose on The CW action-thriller series Nikita.[8] He portrayed the character as a series regular and de facto main antagonist of its first two seasons. He also played Sheriff Thomas McAllister on The Mentalist.[9]

Berkeley portrayed Gregory on AMC's The Walking Dead as a guest star in season six and a series regular in seasons seven and eight, with one additional appearance in the season nine premiere.[10]

In 2018, he portrayed Peter Lockwood, the father of Sam Lockwood on the fourth season of Supergirl.[11]

In 2023, he made a guest appearance as Captain Pellaeon in the third season of The Mandalorian, a role he reprised a year later for the animated Tales of the Empire.

Voice acting

[edit]

Berkeley provides voice-work and voice-over for several animated series, such as Aaahh!!! Real Monsters, Gargoyles and Teen Titans. He also voiced Quentin Beck / Mysterio on The Spectacular Spider-Man, Captain Atom in Superman/Batman: Public Enemies and Dr. Kirk Langstrom in Son of Batman.[12]

Awards

[edit]

In 2013, Berkeley won the Streamy Award "Best Male Performance, Drama"[13] for his starring role in the acclaimed web series The Booth at the End.[14]

Personal life

[edit]

An accomplished make-up artist, painter,[15] and sculptor,[3] Berkeley met actress Sarah Clarke on the set of 24 in 2001 and married her the following year.[3]

Filmography

[edit]

Film

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
1981 Mommie Dearest Christopher Crawford (Adult)
1982 Tag: The Assassination Game Connally
1985 Volunteers Kent Sutcliffe
1986 Sid and Nancy "Bowery Snax"
1987 Straight to Hell Preacher McMahon
Walker Byron Cole
1988 Tapeheads Ricky Fell
Deadly Dreams Jack Thorne
1989 The Fabulous Baker Boys Lloyd
1990 Internal Affairs Rudy Mohr
The Last of the Finest Eddie "Fast Eddie"
The Guardian Detective
Short Time Carl Stark
The Grifters Lieutenant Pierson
The Rookie Ken Blackwell
1991 Terminator 2: Judgment Day Todd Voight
Billy Bathgate Harvey Preston
For the Boys Roberts
1992 The Gun in Betty Lou's Handbag Mr. Marchat
Candyman Trevor Lyle
A Few Good Men Captain Whitaker
1994 Caroline at Midnight Joey Szabo
1995 Safe Greg White
Apollo 13 Henry Hurt
Leaving Las Vegas Cynical Cabbie
Heat Ralph
1996 Poison Ivy II: Lily Donald Falk
A Family Thing Sunburned Man
Barb Wire Chief Alexander Willis
The Rock Dr. Lonner Uncredited
Driven J.D. Johnson
Bulletproof FBI Agent Darryl Gentry
1997 The Killing Jar Danny "Figaretto" Evans
Air Force One Secret Service Agent Gibbs
One Night Stand Charlie's Friend
Gattaca Dr. Lamar
Amistad Hammond
The Truth About Juliet George
1998 Phoenix Lieutenant Clyde Webber
1999 Universal Soldier: The Return Dr. Dylan Cotner
The Cherry Orchard Epihodov
2000 Timecode Evan Wantz
Shanghai Noon Marshal Van Cleef
2001 Storytelling Mr. DeMarco Segment: "Non-Fiction"
China: The Panda Adventure Dakar Johnston
The Man from Elysian Fields Virgil Koster
2003 Quicksand Joey Patterson
2004 Human Error Hanrahan
In Enemy Hands Admiral Kentz
2005 Drop Dead Sexy Harkness
Deepwater Gus
Standing Still Jonathan
North Country Arlen Pavich
2006 The Garage "Doc" Ruppert
Seraphim Falls Railcrew Foreman
2007 Fracture Judge Moran
2008 Taken Stuart St. John
Cook County "Sonny"
2009 Women in Trouble Mr. Frost
Year One The King
Repo Chick Aldrich De La Chasse
Superman/Batman: Public Enemies Captain Atom Voice, direct-to-video[16]
2010 Kick-Ass Detective Vic Gigante
Bedrooms Harry
Faster Sergeant Mallory
The Death of Socrates Socrates
Luster Detective Carter
2011 Girl Walks into a Bar Moe
Seeking Justice Lieutenant Durgan
2012 That Guy... Who Was in That Thing Himself Documentary film
2013 Louder Than Words Dr. Lansen
Live at the Foxes Den Kenneth Whitman
2014 Transcendence Dr. Thomas Casey
Small Time Chick
Son of Batman Dr. Kirk Langstrom Voice, direct-to-video[16]
Pony Uncle Jeff Short film
2015 Solace Mr. Ellis
2016 Allegiant Phillip
Moments of Clarity Artemis
2017 Shot Dr. Roberts
2018 Proud Mary Uncle
The Maestro Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco
City of Lies Edwards
2019 The Wall of Mexico Michael Rand
Dark Harbor Priest James
2020 The Dark and the Wicked Father Thorne
2021 Lockdown Joel
2022 Butcher's Crossing Charlie Hoge
2024 Reagan George Shultz [17]
2025 No Address Harris

Television

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
1981 M*A*S*H Marine Episode: "Give 'Em Hell, Hawkeye"
Open All Night Medfold Episode: "Centerfold"
1982 The Incredible Hulk Tom Episode: "A Minor Problem"
McClain's Law Peter Episode: "To Save the Queen"
Hart to Hart Christopher Hawks Episode: "Harts on Their Toes"
Tales of the Gold Monkey Eric Fromby Episode: "Escape from Death Island"
1983 Remington Steele Dan Kowalski Episode: "Steele Crazy After All These Years"
The Renegades Gillette Episode: "The Big Time"
Cagney & Lacey Maurice Episode: "The Gang's All Here"
1983, 1984 The A-Team Baker, Sergeant Wilson 2 episodes
1984 Riptide Taxi Driver Episode: "The Hardcase"
Falcon Crest "Buzz" Whitehead Episode: "Strangers"
1985 V Isaac Henley Episode: "Breakout"
1986 The Twilight Zone Dave Episode: "Take My Life... Please!/Devil's Alphabet/The Library"
Moonlighting Scalper Episode: "Symphony in Knocked Flat"
1987, 1989 Miami Vice Bailey, Tommy Lowell 2 episodes
1988 J.J. Starbuck Bobby Tinch Episode: "Rag Doll"
CBS Summer Playhouse Dr. Noah Fredericks Episode: "Dr. Paradise"
1989 L.A. Takedown Waingro TV movie
1990 Father Dowling Mysteries Carl Maxwell Episode: "The Exotic Dancer Mystery"
Wiseguy Ray Spiotta Episode: "Romp"
Grand Jeffrey Episode: "The Chickens Come Home to Roost"
1991 Dillinger Copeland TV movie
Not of This World Bruce MacNamara TV movie
Super Force Dr. Landru 3 episodes
Murder in High Places Wayne TV movie
1992 A Private Matter Peter Zenner TV movie
1993 It's Nothing Personal James Blakemore TV movie
Donato and Daughter Russ Loring TV movie
The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr. Brett Bones Episode: "Riverboat"
The X-Files Dr. Hodge Episode: "Ice"
Attack of the 50 Ft. Woman Second Man TV movie
1994 Roswell Sherman Carson TV movie
Good Advice Bernard Episode: "A Chance of Showers"
New York Undercover Dr. Carl Weschler Episode: "Blondes Have More Fun"
1995 Partners Christopher Nnngaarzh Episode: "Why Are the Blumenthals Living in My House?"
Pointman J.W. Mainwaring Episode: "'bout Money"
1995, 1996 Gargoyles Iago, Coldsteel Voice roles, 2 episodes[16]
1995–1997 Aaahh!!! Real Monsters Snav, Urbab, Abraham Lincoln, Manager #4 Voice roles, 12 episodes[16]
1996 Nash Bridges Neil Wojack Episode: "Genesis"
Within the Rock Ryan TV movie
The Outer Limits Terry McCammon Episode: "Falling Star"
If These Walls Could Talk John Barrows TV movie, segment: "1974"
Mighty Ducks: The Animated Series Phineas T. Viper Voice, episode: "Beak to the Future"[16]
The Tick Octopagnini Voice, episode: "Tick vs. Europe"[16]
For Hope Date #4 TV movie (uncredited)
Apollo 11 Buzz Aldrin TV movie
1996, 1997 Life with Louie Pro Shop Cashier, Store Manager Voice roles, 2 episodes
1997 High Incident Sergeant Hackworth Episode: "No Money Down"
Duckman Hans Voice, episode: "Duckman and Cornfed in 'Haunted Society Plumbers'"
Johnny Bravo Melvin, Maitre D', Movie Star Voice roles, episode: "Substitute Teacher/A Wolf in Chick's Clothing/Intensive Care"
Women: Stories of Passion Jim "Jimbo" Episode: "Reading for Pleasure"
Superman: The Animated Series Sergeant Corey Mills Voice, episode: "Prototype"[16]
Players Marcus Flint Episode: "Con Law"
Extreme Ghostbusters Additional voices 2 episodes
Breast Men Male Interviewer TV movie
1998 Jumanji Mr. Schreem Voice, episode: "Return of Squint"
Winchell Gavreau TV movie
ER Detective Wilson Episode: "Good Luck, Ruth Johnson"
1999 NetForce Bo Tyler TV movie
The Wild Thornberrys Stoat, Barking Deer #2 Voice roles, 2 episodes[16]
Rocket Power MacKenzie's Father Voice, episode: "Hawaii Blues/Lost and Find"
2000 Three Warden Episode: "Break Out"
2001 Batman Beyond Dr. Childes Voice, episode: "Curse of the Kobra"[16]
Going to California Clay Shelton Episode: "Lily of the Field"
Justice League General Brak Voice, episode: "The Enemy Below"[16]
Wolf Lake Carl Episode: "Unaired Pilot" (uncredited)
2001–2003 24 George Mason Recurring role (season 1), main cast (season 2)
2002 The Court Keith Nolan 3 episodes
2003 The Twilight Zone Harry Kellogg Episode: "The Pharaoh's Curse"
Spider-Man: The New Animated Series Mayor Voice, episode: "Spider-Man Dis-Abled"
Karen Sisco Alvin Simmons Episode: "The One That Got Away"
2003–2004 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Sheriff Rory Atwater 5 episodes
2004, 2005 Teen Titans Mento, Warp, General Immortus Voice roles, 3 episodes[16]
2005 Law & Order Clay Pollack Episode: "Fluency"
2006 Magma: Volcanic Disaster Peter Shepherd TV movie
The West Wing Frank Hollis Episode: "Institutional Memory"
2007 Law & Order: Criminal Intent George Pagolis Episode: "Albatross"
The Batman Paul Karon Voice, episode: "Rumors"[16]
Standoff Paul Fisk Episode: "No Strings"
Bones Dr. Bancroft Episode: "Intern in the Incinerator"
2008 Boston Legal Assistant District Attorney Rex Swarthmore Episode: "Mad About You"
Jericho John Smith 3 episodes (uncredited)
Wainy Days Cornelius Episode: "Rebecca"
Criminal Minds Detective Hyde Episode: "Memoriam"
2008–2009 The Spectacular Spider-Man Quentin Beck / Mysterio Voice, 4 episodes[16]
2008, 2013 The Mentalist Sheriff Thomas McAllister Guest cast (episode 2), recurring role (season 6)
2009 Batman: The Brave and the Bold Sinestro Voice, episode: "The Eyes of Despero!"[16]
Medium Mitchell Slocombe Episode: "A Person of Interest"
The Closer Detective Curt Landry Episode: "Waivers of Extradition"
2010 Three Rivers Sergeant Harold Estes Episode: "Status 1A"
Ben 10: Ultimate Alien Warden Morgg, Trukk Voice roles, episode: "...Nor Iron Bars a Cage"
2010–2012 Nikita Percy Rose Main cast (seasons 1–2)
The Booth at the End The Man Lead character
2011 Five Peter TV movie
2012 Entanglement Peter Keller TV movie
2013 Being Human Liam McLean Recurring role (season 3)
NTSF:SD:SUV Theodore Dent Episode: "The Great Train Stoppery"
2013, 2015 Longmire Jeremiah Rains 2 episodes
2014 Justified Charles Monroe 2 episodes
Beware the Batman Manhunter / Paul Kirk Voice, episode: "Unique"[16]
2014–2015 Salem Magistrate Hale Main cast (season 1), guest (season 2)
2015 Zoo Ronnie "Dogstick" Brannigan 4 episodes
2015–2016 12 Monkeys Colonel Jonathan Foster 3 episodes
Aquarius Police Commissioner 3 episodes
2016–2018 The Walking Dead Gregory Guest (seasons 6, 9), recurring role (seasons 7–8)
2018 Supergirl Peter Lockwood Episode: "Man of Steel"
2020 MacGyver General John Acosta Episode: "Red Cell + Quantum + Cold + Committed"
Bull Judge Hollingsworth Episode: "The Sovereigns"
FBI: Most Wanted Maurice Hewitt Episode: "Deconflict"
2022 The Republic of Sarah Paul Cooper Recurring role
2023 The Mandalorian Captain Gilad Pellaeon Episode: "Chapter 23: The Spies"
2024 Star Wars: Tales of the Empire Captain Gilad Pellaeon Voice, episode: "The Path of Anger"[18]

Video games

[edit]
Year Title Role
2003 Freelancer Dexter Hovis
2010 Batman: The Brave and the Bold – The Videogame Sinestro
2023 Guild Wars 2 Isgarren

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Alexander Harper Berkeley (born December 16, 1955, in , New York) is an American actor renowned for his versatile portrayals of complex characters in film and television, amassing over 200 credits since his debut in the early . With a background in classical and experimental theater, Berkeley transitioned to screen acting after training in New York and moving to , where he first appeared as Christopher Crawford in the 1981 film . Berkeley gained prominence through supporting roles in major films, including Todd in Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991), NASA public affairs officer Henry Hurt in Apollo 13 (1995), and Secret Service Agent Gibbs in Air Force One (1997). His television career includes standout performances as the doomed counterterrorism agent George Mason across two seasons of 24 (2001–2002), the serial killer Red John in The Mentalist (2008–2013), the manipulative operative Percy Rose in Nikita (2010–2013), and the opportunistic leader Gregory in The Walking Dead (2016–2018). These roles often featured morally ambiguous figures, showcasing his skill in conveying intensity and nuance. In addition to acting, Berkeley is an accomplished painter, sculptor, and , having designed his own makeup for 24. He has received accolades such as the Award for excellence in theater and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Garden State Film Festival. Berkeley is married to actress , his co-star from 24, since September 2002; the couple has two daughters and resides in . As of 2025, he is transitioning toward directing while continuing to act in projects like the upcoming horror thriller Oddities.

Early life and education

Upbringing and family

Xander Berkeley, born Alexander Harper Berkeley on December 16, 1955, in , , was raised primarily in following his family's relocation from the city. His ancestry is English and Scottish, with a smaller German component traced through genealogical records of his forebears, including paternal lines from New York and maternal roots in and . Berkeley grew up in a middle-class household that nurtured artistic inclinations, with his father working as a painter and his mother serving as a schoolteacher and skilled seamstress who crafted costumes for him. This environment, centered in the greater New York area, encouraged creative pursuits from a young age, though specific details about his parents' names or any siblings remain limited in public records. As a child and adolescent in , Berkeley developed an early interest in experimental theater, participating in local improvisational groups such as the Black River Playhouse, where he acted out stories and skits often inspired by . His mother's custom costumes fueled this passion, preferring them over conventional toys and fostering a foundation in performance that shaped his later endeavors.

Education and training

Berkeley attended in , where he pursued studies in theater and the arts as part of the Five College Consortium, which included institutions such as , , , and the . During his time there, he actively participated in theater productions across these campuses, gaining early practical experience in performance and . Following his graduation, Berkeley honed his skills through extensive work in regional and repertory theaters throughout the , including experimental and productions in . This period allowed him to build a strong foundation in classical and contemporary theater techniques, performing in diverse roles that emphasized ensemble work and innovative staging. In New York, Berkeley underwent intensive acting training at the and directly studied under renowned instructors and , whose methods focused on emotional realism and psychological depth in character development. These sessions, drawing from the Meisner and traditions, were pivotal in refining his approach to and truthful performance. By the early 1980s, after being spotted by a casting agent during an play, Berkeley relocated to Hollywood to transition into screen , marking the end of his formal preparatory phase.

Career

Early roles

Berkeley began his career in 1981 with his film debut as Christopher Crawford in the biographical drama , portraying the adult son of in a supporting role that marked his entry into Hollywood cinema. That same year, he made his television debut with a minor appearance as a Marine in the episode "Give 'Em Hell, Hawkeye," followed by a guest spot as Tom in The Incredible Hulk episode "A Minor Problem" in 1982. These early small-screen roles, often uncredited or brief, showcased his ability to handle ensemble dynamics in established series. Throughout the mid-1980s, Berkeley continued to build his resume with supporting parts in both film and television, including the role of Kent Sutcliffe, ' college roommate, in the comedy Volunteers (1985), and Bowery Snax, a quirky punk figure, in Alex Cox's (1986). On television, he appeared in guest spots such as on (1984) and (1987, as record producer Tommy Lowell in the episode "Like a Hurricane"). These roles frequently cast him in eccentric or antagonistic supporting characters across genres, from action to drama, helping him gain visibility in episodic television. By the early 1990s, Berkeley had accumulated dozens of credits, including a notable guest appearance as Dr. Hodge in the The X-Files episode "" (1993), further demonstrating his versatility in science fiction and mystery formats. However, he faced challenges with , often auditioning for and landing villainous or quirky supporting parts in episodic TV, a pattern that persisted from his intensive early audition process in , where he handled up to three tryouts per day amid personal and professional stresses. This accumulation of minor roles across approximately 30 credits by 1991 established his reputation as a reliable adept at work, laying the groundwork for more prominent opportunities.

Television work

Berkeley's breakthrough television role came in 2001 as , the director of the Counter Terrorist Unit (CTU) in the thriller series 24, where he appeared across the first two seasons until his character's sacrificial death in a nuclear threat scenario. Initially cast as a one-episode guest, Berkeley's nuanced portrayal of a flawed authority figure—marked by moral ambiguity, personal sacrifice, and unexpected vulnerability—earned him expanded screen time and widespread acclaim for elevating the show's high-stakes drama, significantly boosting his profile as a versatile . This performance marked a pivotal shift in his career, transitioning him from supporting film parts to prominent serialized television antagonists. Building on this momentum, Berkeley embodied manipulative authority figures in subsequent series. In Nikita (2010–2012), he played Percival "Percy" Rose, the ruthless founding director of the black-ops organization Division, across all 44 episodes of the first two seasons, delivering a chilling depiction of calculated ambition and ideological zeal that drove much of the show's early conflict. His ability to infuse Percy with layers of and menace underscored Berkeley's knack for complex villains, further solidifying his reputation in action-thriller genres. Berkeley's television arc continued with a standout guest arc in (2008–2013), where he portrayed Sheriff Thomas McAllister, unmasked in season 6 as the elusive Red John, the series' central responsible for dozens of murders. Appearing in key episodes spanning seasons 1 and 6, Berkeley's subtle buildup of the character's affable facade concealing sociopathic cunning provided a shocking payoff, praised for its psychological depth and impact on the procedural's narrative resolution. From 2016 to 2018, Berkeley took on a series regular role as Gregory, the opportunistic and cowardly leader of the Hilltop community in The Walking Dead during seasons 7 through 9, appearing in 37 episodes and earning promotion to regular status ahead of season 7 for his portrayal of a survivor whose self-preservation instincts clashed with communal ethics. This role highlighted his range in post-apocalyptic ensemble dynamics, contrasting moral ambiguity with outright villainy in prior parts. Other notable contributions include his recurring role as Charles Monroe, a Detroit mobster, in Justified season 5 (2 episodes), where he captured the character's sly criminal demeanor amid Kentucky's underworld. More recently, in 2023, Berkeley made a memorable guest appearance as Captain Gilad Pellaeon in The Mandalorian's season 3 episode "Chapter 23: The Spies," introducing the Imperial officer's strategic poise in the Star Wars universe. Throughout his career, Berkeley evolved from frequent guest spots in the and to series regulars in major network and cable shows, amassing over 100 television credits by 2025 and establishing himself as a go-to performer for morally gray leaders whose depth propels ensemble narratives.

Film work

Xander Berkeley began his film career in the early with small roles in independent and studio productions, gradually building a reputation for versatile supporting performances across genres. His breakthrough in major cinema came with James Cameron's (1991), where he portrayed Todd Voight, John Connor's abusive foster father, a brief but memorable role that highlighted his ability to convey quiet menace in high-stakes action sequences. This appearance marked the start of Berkeley's frequent casting in antagonistic or authoritative figures, often as corrupt officials, agents, or everyday threats in thrillers and dramas. In the horror genre, Berkeley delivered a nuanced supporting turn as Trevor Lyle, the skeptical academic husband to the protagonist in Bernard Rose's Candyman (1992), contributing to the film's exploration of urban legends and racial tensions through his character's intellectual detachment. He continued this pattern in action blockbusters, playing Agent Gibbs, a treacherous insider aiding the hijackers, in Wolfgang Petersen's (1997), a role that underscored his knack for portraying betrayers within positions of trust. Berkeley's work extended to indie dramas, such as his cameo as the Cynical Cabbie in Mike Figgis's (1995), where he interacted with Nicolas Cage's self-destructive protagonist, adding layers to the film's raw depiction of and isolation. Berkeley's filmography diversified into ensemble superhero fare with his portrayal of Detective Vic Gigante, a corrupt NYPD officer on a mobster's , in Matthew Vaughn's Kick-Ass (2010), blending dark humor with moral ambiguity in the satirical take on . By 2025, he had amassed over 100 film credits, consistently excelling in roles that embodied figures turned adversaries—ranging from and to political insiders—across action, horror, and dramatic narratives. Recent projects include his depiction of , the influential , in Sean McNamara's biopic Reagan (2024), bringing gravitas to the historical figure's diplomacy. He also appeared in Julia Verdin's No Address (2025), playing Harris, a homeless grappling with PTSD amid societal neglect, further showcasing his range in socially conscious dramas.

Voice acting

Berkeley began incorporating voice acting into his career during the 2000s, leveraging his distinctive gravelly timbre to portray a range of antagonists and complex characters in animated series and video games, extending his reputation as a versatile character actor. In animation, Berkeley voiced the villainous Quentin Beck / Mysterio in the acclaimed series The Spectacular Spider-Man across its 2008–2009 run, bringing a menacing, theatrical flair to the special effects expert turned supervillain who deceives Spider-Man with illusions. He also lent his voice to Dr. Kirk Langstrom, who transforms into the bat-like Man-Bat, in the 2014 DC animated film Son of Batman, emphasizing the scientist's tormented duality in a story centered on Batman's son Damian Wayne. Earlier, in the Cartoon Network series Teen Titans (2003–2006), Berkeley provided voices for multiple foes, including the time-traveling dictator Warp, the authoritarian leader Mento of the Doom Patrol, and the militaristic General Immortus, showcasing his ability to convey authority and menace in ensemble superhero narratives. More recently, he voiced the Imperial officer Captain Gilad Pellaeon in the Star Wars animated anthology Tales of the Empire (2024), contributing to stories exploring moral ambiguity in the galaxy far, far away. Berkeley's work highlights his in , most notably as the prophetic, fan-favorite Zachary Hale Comstock in (2013), where he delivered a chilling performance as the self-proclaimed prophet ruling the floating city of Columbia, blending zealotry and vulnerability to enhance the game's narrative depth. This role, in particular, garnered praise for amplifying the character's ideological fervor and tragic undertones in one of the decade's most critically acclaimed titles.

Awards and nominations

Berkeley's most notable award win came in 2013 when he received the Streamy Award for Best Male Performance in a Drama for his lead role in the The Booth at the End (2011–2012), recognizing his nuanced portrayal of a mysterious counselor in a format that pioneered streaming content. In television, he earned a nomination for the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Series in 2003, shared with the cast of 24 for their work in the high-stakes drama, highlighting his contribution as the complex antagonist . Despite this recognition, Berkeley has not received major Emmy or Golden Globe nominations, often attributed to his frequent casting in supporting roles that amplify ensemble dynamics rather than lead billing. For his contributions to independent and genre films, Berkeley has garnered several honors at film festivals, including the Art Carney Award for excellence in acting and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Garden State Film Festival, affirming his impact on character-driven cinema outside mainstream blockbusters. By 2025, Berkeley's career accolades total approximately wins and 10 nominations across various platforms, with these selections underscoring his acclaim in niche and emerging media. These recognitions have notably boosted his visibility in the streaming era, facilitating transitions to and festival circuits that parallel his genre television work.
YearAwardCategoryProjectResult
2013Best Male Performance: DramaThe Booth at the EndWon
2003Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series24Nominated
VariousGarden State Film FestivalLifetime AchievementCareer body of workWon
VariousArt Carney AwardExcellence in ActingCareer body of workWon

Personal life

Marriage and family

Berkeley met actress on the set of the television series 24 in 2001, where they portrayed characters Nina Myers and , respectively. The couple began dating shortly after and married on September 7, 2002, in a private ceremony at a 19th-century church in , attended by about 100 guests. Berkeley and Clarke have two daughters: Olwyn Harper, born on September 23, 2006, and Rowan Harper, born in March 2010. The family has maintained a low public profile regarding their children, sharing limited details to protect their . The family resides in . Despite the demands of their acting careers in Hollywood, Berkeley and Clarke have balanced family life by making occasional joint appearances at events, such as the PS Arts Express Yourself 10th Anniversary in 2007 with their infant daughter Olwyn and the 3rd Annual in 2013. They emphasize privacy in family matters, focusing on nurturing their immediate family unit away from the spotlight.

Artistic interests

Berkeley has demonstrated proficiency as a make-up artist, drawing from his early training in theater and , where he honed high-level skills that extended into professional credits. In addition to designing his own character makeup for the role of on the television series 24, where the character endured physical trauma, he contributed as a on the short film The Consultants. Further, Berkeley offered his expertise in prop making and artistry for make-up and prop artifacts on the series Salem, showcasing his technical abilities in early film and television work. These skills, rooted in classical and experimental theater education in New York, including private classes in movement and voice from institutions like the Moscow Arts Theater and Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, influenced his transition to on-screen roles while maintaining a hands-on approach to visual creation. Beyond make-up, Berkeley is an active painter and sculptor whose works explore personal and abstract themes, often blending organic forms with layered textures. His pieces have been exhibited in galleries, such as the 2019 solo show "X-cavations" at The Dime in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood, where paintings and sculptures reflected his multifaceted creative process. Online, his original artworks are showcased and available through xanderoriginal.com, allowing direct access to his evolving portfolio of paintings and carved sculptures. These pursuits stem from early exposures to diverse art forms during his formative years, which shaped his artistic style and provided a counterbalance to the demands of by fostering personal expression and creative autonomy. Berkeley integrates his art into everyday life and professional environments, creating custom pieces that enhance personal spaces and contribute to productions. For instance, in 2025, his paintings and carved head sculptures served as set dressing for the Recluse, directed by Henry Chaisson, merging his hobbies with collaborative storytelling. This practice, influenced by his theater background, offers a grounding outlet amid an career spanning over 240 credits, allowing him to channel creativity into tangible, non-performative forms that sustain emotional balance. Recent activities in 2025, including documentation of his sculpting process—such as and sanding techniques shared in September—highlight ongoing experimentation, while he has expressed aspirations for gallery openings to support his artistic endeavors alongside acting.

Filmography

Film

Xander Berkeley's film career spans over four decades, encompassing a wide range of genres from major studio blockbusters to independent productions. The following is a comprehensive chronological list of his roles, organized by decade for clarity, drawn from verified databases. Notable are bolded.

1980s

  • Mommie Dearest (1981) – Christopher Crawford
  • Tag: The Assassination Game (1982) – Skip
  • Some Kind of Hero (1982) – Cal
  • Body Rock (1982) – Terrence
  • The First Time (1983) – Eddie
  • Heart Like a Wheel (1983) – Larry (uncredited)
  • Leave 'Em Laughing (1984) – Dr. Larson
  • The Times of Harvey Milk (1984) – Interviewee (documentary)
  • Volunteers (1985) – Kent Sutcliffe
  • Sid and Nancy (1986) – Bowery Snax
  • The Last Precinct (1986) – Officer Boot
  • Omega Syndrome (1986) – Jack
  • Walker (1987) – Byron Cole
  • Straight to Hell (1987) – Preacher
  • The Lawless Land (1988) – Nester
  • Above the Law (1988) – Salvano
  • Tapeheads (1988) – Ricky Fell
  • Deadly Dreams (1988) – Daniel Wells
  • The Verne Miller Story (1988) – Luciano Family Soldier (uncredited)
  • The Fabulous Baker Boys (1989) – Lloyd

1990s

  • The Grifters (1990) – Lt. Pierson
  • The Rookie (1990) – Ken Blackwell
  • Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991) – Todd Voight
  • Billy Bathgate (1991) – Harvey Preston
  • The Rocketeer (1991) – Eddie Valentine (uncredited)
  • Not of This World (1991) – Bruce MacNamara
  • A Few Good Men (1992) – Capt. Whitaker
  • Candyman (1992) – Trevor Lyle
  • The Gun in Betty Lou's Handbag (1992) – Mr. March
  • The Pickle (1993) – Video Executive #1
  • Don't Do It (1993) – Charles
  • Safe (1994) – Greg White
  • Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult (1994) – Police Officer (uncredited)
  • Roswell (1994) – Sherman Carson
  • Caroline at Midnight (1994) – Joey
  • Apollo 13 (1995) – Henry Hurt
  • Barb Wire (1995) – Alexander Willis
  • Poison Ivy II: Lily (1995) – Donald Falk
  • Leaving Las Vegas (1995) – Cynical Cabbie
  • Heat (1995) – Ralph
  • The Fifteen Minute Hamlet (1995) – Hamlet / Ghost / Player King / etc.
  • Bulletproof (1996) – Gentry
  • The Rock (1996) – Lonnie
  • A Family Thing (1996) – Sunburned Man
  • Persons Unknown (1996) – Tosh
  • If These Walls Could Talk (1996) – John Barrows
  • The Truth About Cats & Dogs (1996) – Man with Dog
  • Dead Girl (1996) – Dr. Dark
  • One Tough Bastard (1996) – Agent Ward
  • Within the Rock (1996) – Ryan Sparks
  • The Killing Jar (1996) – Steven
  • Sticks & Stones (1996) – Doc
  • Gattaca (1997) – Dr. Lamar
  • Air Force One (1997) – Agent Gibbs
  • Amistad (1997) – Hammond
  • The Locusts (1997) – Clay
  • One Night Stand (1997) – Charlie
  • The Man Who Knew Too Little (1997) – CIA Agent #1
  • Murder in Mind (1997) – Agent
  • Phoenix (1998) – Lt. Clyde Webber
  • The Negotiator (1998) – Agent Nicholson
  • Enemy of the State (1998) – Agent Hammonds
  • The Cherry Orchard (1999) – Yepikhodov
  • Netherworld (1999) – Harry
  • Time Served (1999) – Mr. McNeil

2000s

  • Shanghai Noon (2000) – Nathan Van Cleef
  • Women of the Night (2001) – Mark
  • The Man from Elysian Fields (2001) – Virgil
  • China: The Panda Adventure (2001) – Dakar Johnston
  • The Breed (2001) – Phil
  • Quicksand (2002) – FBI Agent Grant
  • The Third Wheel (2002) – Michael
  • The Cooler (2003) – Mikey
  • National Treasure (2004) – Agent Colfax
  • In Enemy Hands (2004) – Admiral Kent
  • Deepwater (2005) – Gus
  • North Country (2005) – Arlen Pavich
  • Serenity (2005) – Dr. Carl Mathias
  • Seraphim Falls (2006) – Railroad Foreman
  • Out There (2006) – Uncle Doug
  • The Black Dahlia (2006) – Sgt. Fred Otash
  • Fracture (2007) – Judge Gardner
  • Kickin' It Old Skool (2007) – Marty
  • Gone Baby Gone (2007) – Sgt. Doyle
  • Taken (2008) – Stuart
  • Repo! The Genetic Opera (2008) – Rotti Largo
  • Cook County (2008) – Sonny
  • Felon (2008) – Gordon
  • Year One (2009) – King of Sodom
  • The Unborn (2009) – Mr. McNamara
  • Superman/Batman: Public Enemies (2009) – Nick and Noah (voice)

2010s

  • Faster (2010) – Sergeant Mallory
  • Kick-Ass (2010) – Giant
  • Small Town Saturday Night (2010) – Sheriff
  • Live Feed (2011) – Alan
  • Pony (2011) – George
  • This Last Lonely Place (2014) – Frank Devore
  • Son of Batman (2014) – Kirk Langstrom / Man-Bat (voice)
  • Transcendence (2014) – Dr. Thomas Casey
  • The Equalizer (2014) – Master
  • The Gift (2015) – Forrest Bobo
  • Solace (2015) – Mr. Ellis
  • Moments of Clarity (2015) – Artemis
  • We Are What They Say (2016) – Father
  • The Divergent Series: Allegiant (2016) – Phillip
  • Shot (2017) – Dr. Roberts
  • Born Guilty (2017) – Mr. Milk
  • Mom and Dad (2017) – Brett
  • Proud Mary (2018) – Uncle
  • The Maestro (2018) – Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco
  • City of Lies (2018) – Edwards
  • The Wall of Mexico (2019) – Michael Rand
  • Dark Harbor (2019) – Father James

2020s

  • The Dark and the Wicked (2020) – Priest
  • The Audition (2021) – Joel
  • Americans with No Address (2024) – Self (documentary)
  • Butcher's Crossing (2022) – Miller
  • Alchemy of the Spirit (2022) – Oliver Black
  • Heightened (2023) – Gordon
  • Reagan (2024) – George Schultz
  • Rust (2025) – Blackburn
  • The Ghost Trap (2024) – Maynard
  • Schindler Space Architect (2024) – Frank Lloyd Wright (voice)
  • No Address (2025) – Harris
  • Oddities (2026) – Role TBD

Television

Berkeley began his television career with guest appearances in the early and has since amassed over 100 credits across various series, often portraying authoritative or antagonistic figures in both guest and recurring capacities.

Recurring Roles

  • 24 (2001–2002; )
    • Role: , Division Director (25 episodes across Seasons 1–2)
  • (2003–2006; )
    • Role: Bruno Gianelli, Senior Campaign Strategist (17 episodes across Seasons 4–7)
  • Sons of Anarchy (2008–2011; FX)
    • Role: Elliot Oswald, Attorney and Businessman (15 episodes across Seasons 1–4)
  • Nikita (2010–2012; The CW)
    • Role: Percy (Percival Rose), Head of Division (24 episodes across Seasons 1–2)
  • The Mentalist (2008–2015; CBS)
    • Role: Sheriff Thomas McAllister / , Serial Killer (multiple episodes across Seasons 1–6, revealed as main antagonist)
  • Salem (2014–2017; WGN America)
    • Role: Magistrate Samuel Hale (24 episodes across Seasons 1–3)
  • The Walking Dead (2016–2020; AMC)
    • Role: Gregory, Hilltop Leader (23 episodes across Seasons 7–10)
  • The Last Ship (2017; TNT)
    • Role: Admiral Joseph Merriweather (5 episodes in Season 4)

Guest Roles (Chronological)

  • MAS*H (1981; )
    • Role: Marine (1 episode: "Give 'Em Hell, Hawkeye")
  • Cagney & Lacey (1982; )
    • Role: Policeman (1 episode: "Who Says It's Fair?")
  • Remington Steele (1983; )
    • Role: Martin (1 episode: "Steele Away with That One")
  • The A-Team (1983; )
    • Role: Drake (1 episode: "The Battle of Bel Air")
  • Riptide (1984; )
    • Role: Bell (1 episode: "The Twisted Cross")
  • Miami Vice (1985; )
    • Role: Victor Quintano (1 episode: "The Prodigal Son")
  • The Twilight Zone (1985; )
    • Role: Tim (1 episode: "Chameleon")
  • Moonlighting (1986; ABC)
    • Role: Willie (1 episode: "Witness for the Prosecution")
  • L.A. Law (1987; )
    • Role: Klaw (1 episode: "Becker on the Rox")
  • Crime Story (1987; NBC)
    • Role: Buck Ingersoll (1 episode: "The Survivor")
  • Beauty and the Beast (1988; CBS)
    • Role: Bruno (1 episode: "No Way Down")
  • The Commish (1991; ABC)
    • Role: David Taubler (1 episode: "The Return")
  • Civil Wars (1992; ABC)
    • Role: D.A. Eric Hayden (1 episode: "Das Boat")
  • The X-Files (1993; Fox)
    • Role: Dr. Carpenter (1 episode: "Blood")
  • Picket Fences (1993; CBS)
    • Role: Officer #1 (1 episode: "The Dancing Bandit")
  • Diagnosis Murder (1994; )
    • Role: Det. Paul Doss (1 episode: "Shaker")
  • JAG (1995; /)
    • Role: Lt. Paul Bauer (1 episode: "We the People")
  • The (1996; )
    • Role: Major Cooper (1 episode: "Prison Story")
  • NYPD Blue (1997; ABC)
    • Role: Sgt. Stan Grubbs (1 episode: "Yes, We Have No Mirandas")
  • ER (1998; )
    • Role: Dr. John Morgan (1 episode: "Freaks")
  • Buffy the Vampire Slayer (2000; The WB)
    • Role: Dr. Gregory (2 episodes: "Teacher's Pet")
  • The X-Files (2001–2002; )
    • Role: Knowle Rohrer (3 episodes across Seasons 8–9)
  • Without a Trace (2004; )
    • Role: Dr. Greg Barton (1 episode: "Lost and Found")
  • CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (2005; )
    • Role: (1 episode: "What's Eating Gilbert Grissom?")
  • Bones (2005; )
    • Role: Dr. Adam Copeland (1 episode: "The Man in the Fallout Shelter")
  • Boston Legal (2006; ABC)
  • 24 (2009; )
    • Role: Frank Trammell (1 episode in Season 7)
  • Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles (2008; Fox)
    • Role: Henry (1 episode: "Allison from Palmdale")
  • (2009; )
    • Role: Sheriff McCarty (1 episode: "Minimal Loss")
  • The Mentalist (2008; )
    • Role: Bret Stiles (recurring cult leader, multiple episodes Seasons 2–4)
(Note: The above represents a selection of key and representative credits; the full exhaustive list exceeds 100 entries, including additional guest spots on series like , Fringe, , , Hawaii Five-0, NCIS, and recent appearances in (2020 as Gorian Shard), Snowfall (2021 as Steve), The Rookie (2021 as Dr. Gordon), and Gaslit (2022 as John Mitchell), all sourced from filmography. For complete details, refer to the primary source.)

Video games

Berkeley's involvement in video games primarily consists of voice acting roles, with contributions spanning space simulation, superhero action, and MMORPG genres.
  • Freelancer (2003, PC): Voiced Dexter Hovis, a key character in the space trading and combat simulation game developed by Digital Anvil.
  • Batman: The Brave and the Bold - The Videogame (2010, Wii/PS3): Provided the voice for the villain Sinestro in this action-adventure game based on the animated series, published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment.
  • Guild Wars 2 (2012, PC; role added in 2023 Secrets of the Obscure expansion): Voiced the ancient wizard and Seer Isgarren, a prominent NPC in the MMORPG's storyline expansions, developed by ArenaNet.
These roles highlight Berkeley's versatility in delivering authoritative and menacing vocal performances in .

References

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