Personal details
Born:
- Birthday: 1955-02-15
- Born Place: New York City, New York, USA
Also Known As:
Chris McDonald, Christopher MacDonald, Chris MacDonald, 크리스토퍼 맥도날드, Кристофер Макдональд, کریستوفر مکدونالد
Christopher McDonald
Christopher McDonald, born on February 15, 1955, in New York City, New York, is a highly prolific and versatile American actor known for his extensive work across film, television, and stage. Raised in Romulus, New York, he initially pursued a pre-med major at Hobart College before discovering his passion for acting. He further honed his craft at prestigious institutions, including the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art in London, and the Stella Adler Acting Conservatory in New York.McDonald began his career in theater, appearing in numerous off-Broadway productions and later in over thirty-five productions at the Los Angeles Theater Center, including classical plays like "Hamlet" and "Othello." His early screen roles included "Grease 2" (1982) and appearances on television shows like "Cheers." His breakout role came in Ridley Scott's "Thelma & Louise" (1991), where he played Darryl Dickinson.He is widely recognized for his memorable portrayals of often arrogant or smarmy characters, most notably Shooter McGavin in "Happy Gilmore" (1996), a role he is set to reprise in "Happy Gilmore 2" (2025). Other significant film credits include "Quiz Show" (1994), "Requiem for a Dream" (2000), "The Perfect Storm" (2000), and "The Iron Giant" (1999), where he lent his voice to Kent Mansley. On television, he has had regular roles in "Family Law" (1999-2002), "Cracking Up" (2004-2006), and "Harry's Law" (2011-2012), and recurring roles in series like "Boardwalk Empire" and "Hacks." He also has a role as Jimmy Mack in the upcoming film "The Last Rodeo" (2025).Married to Lupe Gidley since 1992, McDonald has three daughters and one son. Beyond his acting career, he is an avid pilot and a strong supporter of charities, including the Make a Wish Foundation, in memory of his two siblings and a parent lost to cancer.
