David Cale
ActingDavid Cale (born David Egleton, c. 1958–1959, Luton, Bedfordshire, England) is an English-American performance artist, playwright, songwriter, and actor based in New York City. He grew up in a working-class family in Luton, an industrial town with the highest crime rate in the country at the time, and left England at age 20 to move to New York City in 1979. He made his solo stage debut in 1986 with The Redthroats at PS 122, which won a Bessie Award, and has since created over ten acclaimed solo works including Lillian (Obie Award), Deep in a Dream of You (Bessie Award), Palomino (San Francisco Bay Area Critics Circle Award), Harry Clarke (Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Solo Show, starring Billy Crudup), and the solo musical memoir We're Only Alive for A Short Amount of Time (2019 Jeff Award for Best New Musical, Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Solo Performance, Drama Desk Award nomination). He is also a songwriter, with songs performed by Elvis Costello, Debbie Harry, and Jimmy Scott. He was the first recipient of the Sun Valley Playwright's Residency, living and working in Ernest Hemingway's home in Ketchum, Idaho. His acting filmography spans over 20 productions across film and television. Notable film credits include Radio Days (1987, his screen debut, as the Director), Moon Over Parador (1988), Men Don't Leave (1990), He Said, She Said (1991), Beethoven (1992), Pollock (2000), The Slaughter Rule (2002, as Floyd Duffner, with Ryan Gosling), Two Lovers (2008, as Jeweler, with Joaquin Phoenix), Coming Up Roses (2011, as Joe, with Bernadette Peters), Winter in the Blood (2013, as Bad Suit), James White (2015, as Grief Counselor), True Story (2015, as Middle-Aged Man), Vox Lux (2018, as Laser Director, with Natalie Portman), Private Life (2018, as David, with Paul Giamatti and Kathryn Hahn), Light From Light (2019, as Father Martin), and The Testament of Ann Lee (2025, as John Hocknell). On television he has appeared in the Law & Order franchise (Law & Order, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit as Judge George Wheeler, and Law & Order: Criminal Intent), The Good Wife (2015, as Dr. Nigel Buggy), The Blacklist (2015, as Lucius Kuhlmann), and The Characters (2016, as Robert).
Scott Handy
ActingLondon, EnglandBorn to an Irish father and English mother, Scott Handy graduated from the University of Cambridge with a degree in English. He was also a choral scholar and, in addition to singing, he plays saxophone and was a member of the boy pop group Ice Cold in Alice in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Jeremy Wheeler
ActingJeremy Wheeler is a British character and supporting actor, living in and working from Hungary.
Steve Zahn
ActingMarshall, Minnesota, USASteve Zahn has carved out a distinctive niche in the world of film and television, known for his ability to seamlessly blend comedy with heartfelt performances. Born in 1967 in Marshall, Minnesota, Zahn was raised in a family that encouraged artistic expression. His early experiences in community theatre laid the groundwork for his impressive career, igniting a passion for acting that would later take him to stages and screens around the globe.
Zahn's ascent in the entertainment industry began in the mid-1990s. His breakout role in the landmark film Reality Bites (1994) showcased his unique comedic timing and relatable charm. This performance solidified his presence in Hollywood and opened doors to numerous opportunities. Following this, he starred in That Thing You Do! (1996), a delightful musical comedy that further established his reputation as a versatile actor.
What sets Zahn apart is his distinctive acting style, which often combines an earnestness with a quirky, offbeat sensibility. He has an innate ability to portray characters that are both endearing and flawed, making them resonate deeply with audiences. In Out of Sight (1998), he displayed his range in a more dramatic role, working alongside notable actors such as George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez, proving he could hold his own in a star-studded ensemble.
Zahn continued to build on his success with performances in films like Happy, Texas (1999) and Riding in Cars with Boys (2001), where he showcased his knack for balancing humour with poignant moments. His role in Shattered Glass (2003) marked a significant transition in his career, as he tackled more serious subject matter, earning critical acclaim for his portrayal of journalist Stephen Glass.
The mid-2000s saw Zahn venture into action and adventure with roles in Sahara (2005) and Rescue Dawn (2007). His ability to adapt to various genres, from comedy to drama to action, speaks volumes about his versatility as an actor. Zahn’s voice work in animated films such as Chicken Little (2005) and The Good Dinosaur (2015) further demonstrates his broad range, allowing him to reach younger audiences while maintaining his appeal to adults.
In recent years, Zahn has continued to engage audiences on television, particularly with his role as Davis McAlary in HBO's critically acclaimed series Treme (2010-2013). This performance highlighted his ability to bring depth to complex characters in a compelling narrative. His work on the show earned him praise for capturing the spirit of post-Katrina New Orleans, adding to his growing legacy.
Throughout his career, Zahn has garnered various accolades, reflecting his talent and dedication to the craft. He has been nominated for several awards, including a Screen Actors Guild Award, and has received recognition from different film festivals for his performances. These accolades serve as a testament to his impact on the industry and his contributions to the art of acting.
Zahn's influence extends beyond his performances; he has become a respected figure in Hollywood, known for his work ethic and collaborative spirit. His commitment to diverse roles and willingness to take creative risks has inspired many aspiring actors. As he continues to evolve in his craft, Steve Zahn's legacy in the realm of film and television remains firmly established, leaving an indelible mark on audiences and fellow artists alike.
Insomniacs Trivia
- Steve Zahn originally pursued a career in music before fully committing to acting.
- He has a passion for outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing.
- Zahn is known for his improvisational skills, often bringing a spontaneous flair to his performances.
- He has voiced characters in multiple animated films, showcasing his versatility beyond live-action roles.
- Zahn has a keen interest in photography, often capturing moments from his travels and experiences.
Insomniacs Take
Steve Zahn’s ability to infuse warmth and humour into his performances has made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning decades, he has proven time and again that he can tackle any role with finesse. Whether he’s making audiences laugh or inviting them to reflect on deeper themes, Zahn’s contributions to film and television are both profound and entertaining. His unique style and genuine approach to acting ensure that he remains a vital part of contemporary cinema.
Selton Mello
ActingPassos, Minas Gerais, BrazilSelton Figueiredo Melo, known as Selton Mello (born December 30, 1972) one of Brazil’s most respected actors and directors, has built a remarkable career spanning four decades. From his beginnings as a child actor to his status as a celebrated artist, Mello has consistently demonstrated his passion for storytelling and connection with audiences.Born in Passos, Minas Gerais, Mello began acting in Brazilian television soap operas during the 1980s. His talent quickly earned him recognition, leading to his transition to cinema. In the 1990s, he gained acclaim with films such as Lavoura Arcaica (To the Left of the Father) and O Auto da Compadecida (A Dog’s Will). The latter remains a cultural classic, with Mello’s role as Chicó highlighting his comedic timing and depth.Mello’s versatility as an actor is evident in his diverse filmography, including Meu Nome Não É Johnny (My Name Ain’t Johnny)* and Jean Charles, a poignant portrayal of a Brazilian immigrant’s tragic story. In Ainda Estou Aqui (I’m Still Here), directed by Walter Salles, Mello delivered a powerful performance as Rubens Paiva, a congressman disappeared during Brazil’s military dictatorship. Beyond acting, Mello has excelled as a director. His 2011 film O Palhaço (The Clown), which explores themes of identity and purpose, received widespread acclaim and numerous awards. His second directorial work, O Filme da Minha Vida (The Movie of My Life), further showcased his storytelling ability, earning accolades at the Rome Film Festival.A member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Mello plays a key role in promoting Brazilian cinema internationally. With over 40 years in the industry, Selton Mello remains a significant figure, celebrated for his contributions as an actor, director, and cultural embassador.