Gregg Henry

Gregg Henry (born May 6, 1952 in Lakewood, Colorado) is a versatile American actor whose career spans over four decades, marked by a reputation for portraying complex antagonists and authoritative figures. Emerging from a modest upbringing in the Denver‑Metro area, Henry pursued acting after high school and quickly secured his first screen credit in 1976, launching a prolific journey that would see him inhabit more than seventy‑five television series and a multitude of film roles. His early collaborations with director Brian De Palma cemented his status as a reliable character actor; he appeared in six De Palma projects, most notably the cult classic Body Double (1984), where his nuanced performance contributed to the film’s enduring intrigue. Henry’s filmography includes memorable parts such as the ruthless con‑man in Payback (1999) and the imposing leader Jason, the grandfather of Peter Quill, in the Guardians of the Galaxy saga, showcasing his ability to blend menace with subtle humanity. He has also delivered compelling turns in independent cinema, including Jack MacReady in Slither and John Felkner in Super, further demonstrating his adaptability across genres. On television, Henry has become a familiar face, delivering steady performances in acclaimed series such as The Riches, where he played Hugh Pannetta alongside Eddie Izzard and Minnie Driver, and White Collar as Dobbs, as well as guest appearances on 24, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, The Killing (as Detective Carl Reddick), and Scandal (as Hollis Doyle). His recurring collaborations with filmmaker James Gunn have extended into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where he portrays Jason, a beloved elder statesman, adding depth to the intergalactic family dynamic. Beyond screen work, Henry embraced classical theater, taking on the title role in Julius Caesar for Shakespeare in the Park, evidencing his classical chops. Married to theatre director Lisa James, he maintains a low‑key personal life, with no publicly confirmed children. Over his enduring career, Henry’s consistent presence across film, television, and stage has solidified his reputation as a dependable and compelling character actor, enriching each project with a blend of gravitas and subtlety.