Bruce A. Young

Bruce A. Young is an American actor and screenwriter born on April 22, 1956, in Wilmette, Illinois. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Young has become a recognizable character actor in both television and film, noted for his versatile performances ranging from gritty police captains to comedic side‑kicks. He first entered the industry in 1981 with a small role in Thief and quickly built a résumé that includes memorable parts in iconic movies such as Risky Business (as Jackie), The Color of Money (as Moselle), Basic Instinct (as Andrews), Jurassic Park III (as M. B. Nash), and Enough (as a self‑defense trainer). On television, Young is perhaps best remembered for his portrayal of Cascade Police Captain Simon Banks on the popular UPN/CTV science‑fiction police drama The Sentinel, a role he inhabited from 1996 to 1999, cementing his status as a reliable authority figure in genre programming.

Beyond screen work, Young has a deep commitment to live theatre and improvisation. From 1983 to 1987 he was a core member of Chicago’s Organic Theater Company, where he created, produced, and performed in the pioneering hybrid show Dungeon Master, which blended improvisational theatre with live‑action role‑playing. The concept proved enduring, and Young revived the production in Los Angeles in 2001, keeping it active for years even after he stepped back from direct involvement in 2006. As a writer, he contributed scripts to television series such as E/R and the fantasy adventure film The Lord Protector: The Riddle of the Chosen. His extensive guest‑starring credits include appearances on 21 Jump Street, Quantum Leap, The X‑Files, NYPD Blue, Cold Case, Grey’s Anatomy, and Prison Break, showcasing his adaptability across drama, comedy, and sci‑fi genres. With a career marked by both on‑screen charisma and off‑stage innovation, Bruce A. Young exemplifies the enduring talent of a dedicated Hollywood journeyman.