Kurtwood Larson Smith - A Look At His Life And Roles
Talking about Kurtwood Larson Smith, you know, it’s like looking at a familiar face who’s been part of so many stories we’ve watched over the years. His presence on screen, whether making us laugh or giving us a bit of a scare, has really, truly left a mark, and so many folks remember him for these memorable parts. From playing a rather tough dad to some truly memorable villains, his ability to just, well, embody different sorts of people is pretty amazing, if you ask me. He has, in a way, become a fixture in the entertainment world, someone you can count on to deliver a performance that stays with you, and that’s a pretty neat thing for an artist to achieve.
He is, essentially, a performer who has shown a wide range in the characters he brings to life. You might recognize him from a science fiction picture where he played a rather imposing figure, or perhaps from a television program that made many people chuckle with its look back at a past decade. He has, apparently, built a career on taking on parts that are quite different from one another, which speaks volumes about his skill and dedication to his craft. It’s not every day you find someone who can move so easily between a role that makes you feel a chill and one that makes you grin from ear to ear, but he seems to do it with a certain ease.
So, we’re going to take a closer look at the life and work of Kurtwood Larson Smith, tracing his path from his early days to the many characters he has brought to the screen. We’ll cover where he started, what sort of parts he’s taken on, and a little bit about his personal story. It’s a chance to, like, appreciate the person behind those memorable faces we’ve seen in our favorite shows and films. We’ll explore the various aspects of his career, giving you a bit more insight into how he became the respected performer he is today, and that, in itself, is a story worth telling.
Table of Contents
- The Beginnings of Kurtwood Larson Smith
- Personal Details - Kurtwood Larson Smith
- What Roles Did Kurtwood Larson Smith Play?
- Kurtwood Larson Smith's Journey Through Television
- How Did Kurtwood Larson Smith Start His Acting Path?
- Kurtwood Larson Smith's Voice Work and Other Appearances
- Kurtwood Larson Smith's Family Life
- Where Can You See Kurtwood Larson Smith Next?
The Beginnings of Kurtwood Larson Smith
Kurtwood Larson Smith, a person who has made a significant mark in the world of performing, came into being on July 3, 1943. His birth took place in a place called New Lisbon, which is in Wisconsin, USA. So, that's where his story, in a way, first started. It's interesting to think about how someone from a smaller town can go on to achieve such widespread recognition for their work in front of an audience. His early life, like many people's, had its own set of circumstances that shaped him.
His mother, whose name was Mabel Lund, went on to marry George Smith after Kurtwood's biological father, unfortunately, passed away while serving in World War II. This detail, you know, gives us a glimpse into the family dynamics that were present during his formative years. It means he grew up with a stepfather, which is a common experience for many people, and it surely played a part in his upbringing. By the late 1950s, his family made a big move, heading from Wisconsin all the way to California. This shift in location, pretty much, opened up new possibilities for him as he got older.
He spent his growing-up years in the San Fernando area of southern California. This part of the country is, of course, known for its connection to the entertainment industry, though it’s not to say that was the direct reason for his family’s move. It just happens to be where he ended up spending his formative years. This relocation, in some respects, put him closer to the very industry where he would eventually find his calling. It’s almost like fate, in a way, had a hand in where he would settle down during those important teenage years.
Personal Details - Kurtwood Larson Smith
When we talk about the personal aspects of Kurtwood Larson Smith, there are a few facts that give us a clearer picture of the person. These details help to fill out the story of someone who has, essentially, been a familiar face on screens for many years. Knowing a bit about his background can, arguably, help us appreciate his performances even more, as it provides a foundation for the person he is.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kurtwood Larson Smith |
| Date of Birth | July 3, 1943 |
| Place of Birth | New Lisbon, Wisconsin, USA |
| Height | 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters) |
| Current Spouse | Joan Pirkle (since November 5, 1988) |
| Previous Spouse | Cecilia Souza |
So, as you can see from the table, Kurtwood Larson Smith was born on July 3, 1943, in New Lisbon, Wisconsin. That’s a key piece of information, really, when we’re looking at someone’s life story. His full birth name is, in fact, Kurtwood Larson Smith, which he has kept throughout his career. It’s not uncommon for people in the performing arts to adopt a stage name, but he seems to have stuck with his given name, which is, you know, pretty straightforward.
His height is also something that people sometimes wonder about, and he stands at 6 feet 1 inch, or about 1.85 meters. This physical attribute, obviously, contributes to his presence on screen, especially when he’s playing characters who need to project a certain level of authority or intimidation. It’s just one of those details that people sometimes notice and, well, it’s part of who he is as a performer. We'll get into his work, which is where he has truly made his mark, in the sections that follow.
What Roles Did Kurtwood Larson Smith Play?
When you think about Kurtwood Larson Smith, there are a couple of parts that pretty much jump to mind for most people. He is, to be honest, very well known for playing a main figure who caused trouble, a character named Clarence Boddicker, in a film from 1987 called *RoboCop*. This role really put him on the map for many viewers, showing his ability to portray someone quite unsettling. It was, arguably, one of those performances that stuck with people for a long time, making him a recognizable face for a certain kind of character.
Then, of course, there's his work as Red Forman in the television program *That '70s Show*. This part, you know, showed a completely different side of his performing range. He played a stern, yet often funny, parental figure who became a beloved part of many households. It’s sort of a contrast to his villainous role, highlighting his skill at moving between different types of characters. This particular role, actually, made him a household name for a whole new generation of viewers, and he even returned to it for *That '90s Show*, which is pretty cool.
Beyond these two major roles, Kurtwood Larson Smith has, essentially, taken on a wide array of parts in both films and television. He’s often been seen playing characters who are in positions of power, like a police officer, or someone who gives orders. This tendency to play figures of authority, or those who are a bit tough, seems to be a recurring theme in his career. It just goes to show how versatile he is, being able to fit into different stories while still bringing his own unique touch to each character he embodies, and that’s a skill many performers would envy.
Kurtwood Larson Smith's Journey Through Television
Kurtwood Larson Smith has, over the years, built a considerable presence on the small screen, appearing in many television programs that have become quite popular. His work on *That '70s Show* is, of course, a prime example, where he delivered a performance that resonated with a lot of people. But his television journey extends well beyond that one program, showing his commitment to the medium. He has, in a way, become a staple of television, someone who can be relied upon to deliver a strong performance in any project he joins.
He was, for instance, a part of the seventh season of the program *24*, which was known for its fast-paced storytelling and intense situations. Taking on a role in a show like that requires a certain kind of presence, and he certainly has it. He also appeared in *Patriot* and *The Ranch*, which are other examples of his varied television work. These roles, in some respects, allowed him to explore different aspects of human behavior and different kinds of storytelling, further demonstrating his breadth as a performer. It's pretty clear he enjoys the challenge of diverse parts.
It's important to remember that Kurtwood Larson Smith has often played what you might call "stern parental characters." These are the figures who are tough, perhaps a bit grumpy, but who often have a deeper, caring side underneath. This type of role, arguably, became a sort of signature for him, making him a go-to person for such parts. He brings a certain authenticity to these characters, making them feel real and relatable, even when they are being particularly gruff. This ability to convey complex emotions, even with a seemingly simple character type, is something to admire.
How Did Kurtwood Larson Smith Start His Acting Path?
Every performer has a starting point, and for Kurtwood Larson Smith, his path into the world of acting began with his education. He attended Canoga Park High School in California, where he was, actually, the senior class president. This detail, you know, gives a little insight into his personality even back then, suggesting he had leadership qualities and was involved in school life. He finished up his time at Canoga Park High School in 1961, which was a significant step on his journey.
After high school, he continued his studies, focusing on theater. He pursued this interest at the College of San Mateo. This was a place where he could really start to learn the craft of performing, getting a foundation in the skills needed for the stage and screen. It’s where many people begin to refine their talents, and it was a crucial step for him. He then went on to San Jose State University, where he also studied theater and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1965. This academic background, well, provided him with a solid understanding of the art form.
So, his acting path wasn't just about getting lucky; it was built on a foundation of formal learning and dedication. He put in the time to understand the nuances of performing, which, in a way, prepared him for the many different kinds of roles he would eventually take on. This commitment to his education, essentially, shows that he approached his chosen field with a serious attitude, aiming to hone his skills from the very beginning. It’s a good reminder that even for someone who seems to naturally embody roles, there’s often a lot of hard work and study involved.
Kurtwood Larson Smith's Voice Work and Other Appearances
Beyond his on-screen appearances, Kurtwood Larson Smith has also lent his voice to animated projects, showing another facet of his performing skills. He was, for example, a voice performer for the program *Regular Show*, where he provided the voice for a character named Gene. He also voiced a park ranger in an episode of that show called "Prankless." This work, you know, allows him to create characters using just his voice, which is a different kind of challenge compared to acting with his whole body.
Outside of his work on *Regular Show*, he is also remembered for his roles in a few other well-known productions. He was in *Rambo III*, a film from 1988, where he played a character named Robert Griggs. He also had a part in *Broken Arrow* from 1996, and he appeared in *Star Trek VI*. These roles, like, highlight his presence in action and science fiction films, showing his range across different genres. It’s pretty cool how he can fit into so many varied stories, from a tough action movie to a space adventure.
It’s also worth noting that Kurtwood Larson Smith has often been cast as a police officer in his roles. This particular type of character, basically, seems to be one he has played many times throughout his career. On the television program *House*, he played a character who was a doctor, though it was after a series of what are described as minor roles. So, he has, in fact, taken on many supporting parts that have contributed to the overall feel of the productions he’s been a part of. His ability to bring authenticity to these diverse roles, whether big or small, is a testament to his skill.
Kurtwood Larson Smith's Family Life
While much of the discussion about Kurtwood Larson Smith naturally centers on his performing career, it's also worth touching upon his personal life, specifically his family connections. He has, essentially, been married more than once, which is a part of many people's life stories. His current marriage is to Joan Pirkle, and they have been together since November 5, 1988. This is a significant length of time, really, showing a lasting partnership in a world that can sometimes be quite unpredictable for personal relationships.
Before his marriage to Joan Pirkle, Kurtwood Larson Smith was married to Cecilia Souza. This earlier marriage is also part of his personal history, contributing to the full picture of his life. It’s a reminder that performers, just like anyone else, have lives outside of their work, with relationships and personal journeys that shape who they are. These details, you know, offer a glimpse into the person behind the characters, showing that he has built a life that includes personal connections and family bonds, which is pretty fundamental to most people’s existence.
So, his family life, particularly his long-standing marriage to Joan Pirkle, shows a stability that might not always be associated with the entertainment industry. It’s a personal aspect that, arguably, speaks to his character and commitment, not just in his work but in his relationships as well. Knowing a bit about his personal background, including his family, helps to round out the story of Kurtwood Larson Smith, giving us a more complete view of the person who has brought so many different characters to life on our screens. It's clear that, at the end of the day, his life is rich both professionally and personally.
Where Can You See Kurtwood Larson Smith Next?
For those who admire the work of Kurtwood Larson Smith and want to experience his performances, the good news is that his extensive body of work is, essentially, quite accessible. You can, obviously, find a full list of the movies and television programs he has been a part of throughout his career. This means that if you’re looking to watch something new, or revisit an old favorite, there are many options available to you. His career has spanned decades, so there's a lot to explore, which is pretty fantastic for anyone who enjoys his style of performing.
His roles, from the villainous Clarence Boddicker to the stern but memorable Red Forman, are often available on various streaming services or through different media platforms. So, if you’re wondering where you can catch his latest work, or perhaps something from earlier in his career, it’s usually just a matter of checking out where these shows and films are being offered. It’s really quite convenient to be able to access such a wide range of his performances with relative ease. You can, in a way, pick and choose what kind of Kurtwood Larson Smith experience you're in the mood for, whether it's a chuckle or a moment of suspense.
Basically, whether you want to see him in a dramatic role, a comedic one, or even hear his voice in an animated series, there’s a good chance you can find it. His impact on both film and television is clear, and his performances continue to be enjoyed by people who appreciate solid acting. So, for anyone wanting to see more of Kurtwood Larson Smith, his work is out there, waiting to be discovered or re-enjoyed, offering a chance to witness his skill across many different stories and characters. His contribution to entertainment is, without a doubt, a significant one, and his roles remain available for people to enjoy.
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Pictures of Kurtwood Smith
Pictures of Kurtwood Smith
Pictures of Kurtwood Smith, Picture #115281 - Pictures Of Celebrities
