Peter MacNicol is a highly acclaimed and accomplished American actor, born on April 10, 1954, in the vibrant city of Dallas, Texas, a place that would later serve as the backdrop for his early life and formative years. During this pivotal period, MacNicol's passion for the art of theater began to take shape, ultimately driving him to pursue higher education at the esteemed University of Dallas and the prestigious University of Minnesota, where he immersed himself in the world of theater and dedicated himself to refining his craft through rigorous study and intense training.
Following the completion of his academic pursuits, MacNicol made the bold decision to relocate to the vibrant city of New York, driven by an unwavering passion for a career in the captivating world of acting.
As fate would have it, his breakthrough moment arrived in the year 1981, when he took to the Broadway stage for the first time, starring in the critically acclaimed play Crimes of the Heart, a performance that would ultimately earn him a prestigious Theatre World Award.
Subsequent to this auspicious debut, MacNicol continued to hone his craft, appearing in a diverse array of Broadway productions, including the intellectually stimulating The Real Thing, the hauntingly powerful The Crucible, and the emotionally charged The Pillowman.
MacNicol's illustrious film career boasts an array of impressive roles, including memorable appearances in the fantasy epic Dragonslayer, the critically acclaimed drama Sophie's Choice, the supernatural comedy Ghostbusters II, the quirky family comedy Addams Family Values, and the beloved comedy Bean. However, it is his iconic portrayal of the enigmatic and charismatic lawyer John Cage in the popular FOX comedy-drama series Ally McBeal that has arguably cemented his status as a household name.
Notably, MacNicol's professional endeavors extend far beyond his credits in the realm of film and television, as he has also made significant appearances in a multitude of television shows, a diverse array that includes the critically acclaimed series 24, the cerebral and mathematically inclined Numbers, and the satirical and witty Veep.
Moreover, MacNicol is renowned for his remarkable adaptability and impressive range as an actor, effortlessly transitioning between comedic and dramatic roles with ease, a testament to his remarkable talent and dedication to his craft.
MacNicol is a deeply committed and devoted individual, cherishing the role of husband to the lovely Martha Cumming and proud father to their two precious children, who undoubtedly bring immense joy and fulfillment to his life.
As a professional of the highest caliber, he is an active and engaged member of the esteemed Actors' Equity Association, showcasing his unwavering dedication to the craft of acting and his unwavering commitment to the betterment of his peers within the industry.
Through his membership in the Screen Actors Guild, he demonstrates a steadfast commitment to his craft, as well as a strong sense of camaraderie and solidarity with his fellow actors, working together to promote the highest standards of artistic excellence and to protect the rights and interests of those within the profession.
