Wilbur Fitzgerald

Wilbur Fitzgerald (born September 15, 1948) is an American film and television actor whose career spans more than four decades, beginning in the early 1980s and continuing robustly into the present day. Emerging from modest beginnings, Fitzgerald quickly became a reliable character actor, recognized for his ability to convey authority and nuance, most notably through his memorable portrayal of District Attorney Gerard Darnelle in the critically acclaimed series In the Heat of the Night. Over the years he has built an extensive résumé that includes recurring and guest‑appearances on a wide variety of popular television programs, such as NCIS: New Orleans, Matlock, Walker, Texas Ranger, Prison Break, Drop Dead Diva, Friday Night Lights, The Cape and October Road, each role showcasing his versatility across genres ranging from procedural drama to poignant family narratives. In addition to his television work, Fitzgerald has contributed significantly to the film industry, appearing in a diverse slate of movies that underscore his adaptability. His film credits feature high‑profile titles like The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, RoboCop 3, Baby Driver, and Radioland Murders, as well as more niche projects such as The Rose and the Jackal where he played a reporter, and The Greening of Whitney Brown. Throughout his enduring career, he has been praised for delivering solid performances that enhance ensemble casts while often leaving a lasting impression with his distinctive screen presence. Married to Dianna Fitzgerald, he continues to pursue new roles, cementing his status as a steadfast figure in American entertainment.