Steve Zahn

About

Steve Zahn is an American actor and comedian, born on November 13, 1967, in Marshall, Minnesota. Known for his unique comic timing and versatility, Zahn's career took off after his breakout role in "Reality Bites" (1994). Some of his most notable films include "Happy, Texas" (1999), "Rescue Dawn" (2006), and "War for the Planet of the Apes" (2017). He also gained recognition for his roles in TV series like "Treme" and "Modern Family". Zahn, over the years, has built a reputation as a versatile actor who can excel in both comedic and dramatic roles.

Associated With

Steve Zahn has a variety of connections within the entertainment industry. As an actor, he has worked alongside many prominent figures in a range of film and television projects. He gained recognition for his work with Tom Hanks in "That Thing You Do!" and later collaborated extensively with director Werner Herzog in films such as "Rescue Dawn." On television, Zahn made a name for himself working with creators like David Simon on the series "Treme." In terms of personal relationships, Zahn is married to Robyn Peterman, an actress and author, and they have two children. His collaborations extend to voice acting too, with roles in animated features like "Chicken Little" and "Stuart Little", working with major production companies like Disney and Columbia Pictures.

Career Highlights

• 1994: Steve Zahn makes his film debut in "Reality Bites."
• 1996: Zahn wins critical praise for his role in "SubUrbia" and received an Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Male.
• 1999: Appears in "Stuart Little," a commercial success that earned him wider recognition.
• 2000: Zahn wins the Special Jury Prize for a dramatic role in "Happy, Texas" at the Sundance Film Festival.
• 2001: Enjoys box office success with "Saving Silverman" and "Joy Ride."
• 2003: Zahn ventures into dramatic territory with "Shattered Glass," earning critical acclaim.
• 2005: Receives an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series for his role in "Monk."
• 2008: Zahn stars in the highly acclaimed HBO series "Treme."
• 2014: Earns praise for his performance in the Amazon Studios series "Mad Dogs."
• 2017: His performance in "War for the Planet of the Apes" was hailed as one of the best in the series.
• 2020: Steve Zahn wins the Best Actor award at the Tribeca Film Festival for his role in "Cowboys."

Notable Awards

• Steve Zahn has received several awards for his performances. Here are a few notable ones:
• Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Male: He received this award in 1996 for his performance in "Happy, Texas".
• Special Dramatic Jury Prize for Best Ensemble Cast at the Sundance Film Festival: This award was given to the cast of "Happy, Texas" in 1999, which includes Steve Zahn.
• Blockbuster Entertainment Award for Favorite Supporting Actor – Comedy/Romance: He won this award in 2000 for his role in "Forces of Nature".

FAQs

What Is the Most Popular Steve Zahn Movie/TV Show?

Steve Zahn has a prolific acting career, but one of his most popular roles is perhaps in the hit HBO miniseries "Treme," where he played Davis McAlary, a struggling musician in New Orleans. The series itself was critically acclaimed for its exploration of the city's culture post-Hurricane Katrina. In the realm of movies, Zahn is also widely recognized for his role in "Sahara" alongside Matthew McConaughey and Penelope Cruz, and for his performance in "War for the Planet of the Apes". Yet, arguably his most popular film is the animated adventure "Chicken Little," where he voiced the character Runt of the Litter.

How Did Steve Zahn Get Famous?

Steve Zahn rose to fame through his career in acting, getting his first major break in the 1994 film "Reality Bites." His portrayal of goofy and quirky characters, notably in successful films like "That Thing You Do" and "Saving Silverman", earned him public recognition. These roles, along with his performances in drama films such as "Rescue Dawn" and the "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" series, showcased his range as an actor and solidified his status in Hollywood. His versatility and unique charm have made him a well-known figure in the film industry.