Courtney Gains initially gained recognition during the 1980s by taking on a diverse range of roles in numerous films, including the cult classic Children of the Corn in 1984, the iconic time-travel adventure Back to the Future in 1985, the lighthearted Can't Buy Me Love in 1987, the gritty Colors in 1988, the quirky The 'Burbs in 1989, and the historical drama Memphis Belle in 1990.
Throughout his extensive career, Gains has continued to appear in a wide variety of films, with some of his most recent credits including L.A. Noir, Faster, Grand Theft Auto: Los Santos Drug Wars, The Wrath of Becky, Charming the Hearts of Men, and Queen Bees.
In addition to his work in film, Gains has also made notable guest appearances on several prominent television shows, such as Seinfeld in 1989, Monk in 2002, In the Heat of the Night in 1988, Tales from the Crypt in 1989, ER in 1994, JAG in 1995, Nash Bridges in 1996, Charmed in 1998, Alias in 2001, The Guardian in 2001, "My Name Is Earl" in 2005, Bones, The Middle, and the miniseries Texas Rising, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and Criminal Minds, as well as the popular anthology series Tales.
Beyond his work as an actor, Gains has also pursued a career as an acting coach and musician. He has performed live on stage with the renowned jam band Phish and has released several records, including Ripple Street in 2016, Acoustic Gains in 2021, and Safe Haven in 2023. Gains regularly performs with his three-piece band, THE COURTNEY GAINS GROUP.
With an impressive 140 credits to his name across a wide range of roles, Gains is now celebrating an astonishing 40 years in the film and television industry.