Peter Gallagher

One of America's most respected actors, Peter Gallagher has starred on stage, television, and in film, delivering stellar performances with every role he tackles.

Gallagher, who grew up in Armonk, New York, developed an interest in acting as a teenager starring in school plays and musicals. After graduating from Tufts University, he made his professional stage debut in the 1977 revival of "Hair," followed by a starring role in the Broadway production "Grease." Gallagher's Broadway experiences also include performances in "Guys and Dolls," "The Real Thing" with Glenn Close, and "Long Day’s Journey Into Night," a role that earned him a Tony Award nomination.

Gallagher first achieved fame for his role in Steven Soderbergh's "Sex, Lies, and Videotape" (1989). His film career includes notable roles such as the comatose "fiancé" of Sandra Bullock in "While You Were Sleeping" (1995), an egotistical real estate salesman in "American Beauty" (1999), and a villainous media executive in "Mr. Deeds" (2002). He has appeared in other successful films including "The Player," "The Last Debate," and "Palm Springs."

From 2003 to 2007, Gallagher starred as Sandy Cohen on the Fox television show "The O.C.," a role that introduced him to a new generation of TV viewers. He has also been featured in "Law & Order: SVU," "Grace and Frankie," and "Grey’s Anatomy." In addition to his acting career, Gallagher released an album titled "7 Days in Memphis" in 2005, featuring the song "Don't Give Up On Me."

Beyond his entertainment career, Gallagher is actively involved in Alzheimer's disease advocacy, a cause important to him following the impact of the disease on his family. He serves on the National Advisory Council of the Alzheimer’s Association and participates in fundraising activities for Alzheimer’s research, including Memory Walks. Gallagher's commitment to social causes is further evidenced by his role as co-chair of the National Board of Advisors for the Actor’s Fund.

On April 5, 2007, Gallagher received the Light on the Hill award at Tufts University, recognizing his contributions as an alumnus. He continues to engage with his alma mater and the broader community, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to both his professional and philanthropic endeavors. As of March 2015, Gallagher co-starred on Broadway in "On the Twentieth Century," showcasing his enduring talent and appeal in the theatrical world.