John Ralston
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John Ralston

John Ralston is a Canadian actor born on October 9, 1964, in Miramichi, New Brunswick, who is best known for his extensive work across film and television. He pursued acting after initial studies in Literature and Anthropology at the University of New Brunswick and a diploma in Jazz Studies at St. Francis Xavier University. After beginning his career in repertory and regional theater across Canada, he transitioned to screen work, with one of his most recognized roles being George Venturi, the father in the popular family sitcom Life with Derek (2005-2009) and its subsequent movie Vacation with Derek. Ralston has a diverse filmography, including major film appearances such as the horror-comedy Ready or Not (2019) and the cult thriller Infinity Pool (2023). On television, he played the recurring villain Ming the Merciless in the Flash Gordon series (2007) and had main roles as Steve Unger in the HBO Canada series Living in Your Car and Danny McClure in the satirical series Good God. His other notable TV credits include Bitten, The Path to 9/11, The Lizzie Borden Chronicles, and guest roles in shows like Exit Wounds, Transplant, Ginny & Georgia, and Joe Pickett. Ralston is married to actress Karen Waddell, and they have two children, residing in Toronto, Canada.

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