James Keach Actor, Director, and Producer

James Keach is a well-known American actor, director, and producer1. He was born on December 7, 1947, in Savannah, Georgia2. His family is full of actors, with his brother Stacy Keach being famous too1. Over five decades, Keach has shown his skills in acting, producing, directing, and writing for the screen1

.His film work shows his wide range of talents and experience1. He’s been in hits like “Walk the Line,” “Blind Dating,” and “The Long Riders”1. In “The Long Riders,” he played Jesse James. Keach has always given strong performances, proving his skill and range1.

James Keach

Key Takeaways

  • James Keach is an acclaimed American actor, director, and producer
  • He comes from a family of actors, with his brother Stacy Keach being a renowned actor
  • Keach has demonstrated his talents across various disciplines, including acting, producing, directing, and screenwriting
  • He is recognized for his roles in acclaimed films such as “Walk the Line,” “Blind Dating,” and “The Long Riders”
  • Keach has consistently delivered captivating performances, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor

Introduction

James Keach, a famous actor, director, and producer, was born on December 7, 1947, in Savannah, Georgia3. His family is full of actors, with his dad, Walter Stacy Keach Sr., being an actor, drama coach, writer, and producer. His brother, Stacy Keach, is also a well-known actor.

Keach got his undergraduate degree from Northwestern University. Then, he earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from the Yale School of Drama. There, he learned about Shakespearean acting4. This education helped him start his successful career in show business.

“I was always drawn to the arts, and my family’s legacy in acting inspired me to pursue my own creative passions. The training I received at Northwestern and Yale prepared me for the challenges and nuances of the craft.”

His early life and education set him on his path. They gave him the skills and knowledge needed to become a great performer, director, and producer.

james keach education

Acting Career

James Keach has had a long and varied acting career, appearing in many films and TV shows5. He’s played a wide range of characters, from supporting roles to leading parts.

One of his standout roles was as Jesse James in “The Long Riders” in 1980. He also co-wrote and co-produced this Western drama5. His performance was highly praised, showing his skill in portraying historical figures.

Keach has also shined in films like “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” “The Razor’s Edge,” “Wildcats,” and “Moving Violations.”5 He’s known for his ability to fit into different genres and characters.

Notable Acting Roles Year
The Long Riders 1980
National Lampoon’s Vacation 1983
The Razor’s Edge 1984
Wildcats 1986
Moving Violations 1985

Keach’s career spans from the 1970s to the 2010s, showing his long-lasting success and flexibility in the industry5. He’s known for smoothly moving between different roles and genres, making him a versatile and accomplished actor.

james keach notable roles

Notable Acting Roles

Throughout his career, James Keach has given many memorable performances, proving his skill and versatility5. Some of his notable roles are:

  • Jesse James in “The Long Riders” (1980)
  • Supporting roles in “National Lampoon’s Vacation” (1983), “The Razor’s Edge” (1984), “Wildcats” (1986), and “Moving Violations” (1985)

Keach’s ability to play a wide variety of characters has made him a lasting figure in the entertainment world5. His talent has won over audiences and left a mark on the films and TV shows he’s been in.

“James Keach has the rare ability to seamlessly transition between complex dramatic roles and more lighthearted comedic parts. His versatility as an actor is truly remarkable.”

Keach’s career has lasted for decades, showing his deep commitment to acting5. From his big role in “The Long Riders” to his supporting parts in hit films, Keach has consistently given great performances. These have made him a respected and accomplished actor567.

James Keach: Filmmaker

James Keach5 is not just a successful actor but also a talented filmmaker. Since 1971, he has directed, produced, and written scripts for many different kinds of projects5.

He has made films like “False Identity,” “The Stars Fell on Henrietta,” “Camouflage,” “Blind Dating,” and “Waiting for Forever.”8 Keach shows his skill by making both funny and serious movies5.

One of his best documentaries is “Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me,” which tells the story of the country legend’s fight against Alzheimer’s5. This film got great reviews and won a Grammy Award in 2021 for its production team5.

Keach has worked on many projects, from TV shows to movies8. He has won many awards, including the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 20105.

Film Director Producer Rating Gross Earnings
The Long Riders Executive Producer 81%
Comes a Horseman 67%
The Razor’s Edge 53%
Hurricane 33%
Wildcats 26% $23.6M
FM 20%

james keach filmmaker

Keach’s work shows his skill in making many kinds of films, from stories to documentaries and TV shows8. His hard work and talent have made him respected in the film industry5.

“James Keach is a true master of his craft, with the ability to captivate audiences through his work as both a director and a producer. His films showcase his versatility and his unwavering commitment to storytelling.”

James Keach keeps making great films, whether they’re documentaries or stories5. His work shows his love for filmmaking and his dedication to telling great stories8.

Walk the Line

James Keach produced the 2005 drama “Walk the Line,” a story about country music star Johnny Cash and his love for June Carter9. Directed by James Mangold, it starred Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon, both nominated for Oscars9.

Keach was deeply passionate about making this film10. After many years, it was made with a $28 million budget and made $186.8 million, more than six times its cost9.

The movie got great reviews, with an 82% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 72 on Metacritic9. It was the top music biopic until 2015, marking a significant achievement in the genre9.

Keach’s work on “Walk the Line” was key to its success. The film made $22.3 million in its first weekend and $186 million in North America and $66.9 million internationally9.

The movie was a hit, earning Oscar nods for Phoenix and Witherspoon9. Keach and director James Mangold made a film that entertained and gave insight into Johnny and June’s lives10.

walk the line

“I wanted to create an ’emotional history’ that would have the audience feel they were living the lives of Johnny and June.”10 – James Mangold, Director of “Walk the Line”

Keach’s work on “Walk the Line” proved his skill in bringing stories to life with artistry and truth11. The film’s success shows Keach’s dedication and his skill in working with great filmmakers for a lasting movie experience11.

Directing Television Series

James Keach director tv series has made a big impact on TV. He directed shows like “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman” and “The Young Riders.” He also worked on “Covington Cross,” “Jack’s Place,” “The District,” and “JAG.”6

Keach’s direction has brought his unique vision to TV1. He’s directed a mix of projects, from “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman” to “JAG.”6 His skill in capturing characters and telling stories has made him a top TV director.

Keach has shown his talent by adapting to different genres and tones1. He’s worked on “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman” and “The District,” showing his deep understanding of TV. His work has made TV more engaging6.

james keach director tv series

Keach’s TV work shows his versatility and dedication to storytelling1. Through his direction, he’s created unforgettable characters and stories. This has made him a respected filmmaker in TV and movies6.

Documentary Films

James Keach has made a big mark in documentary films, not just as an actor and director12. His 2014 documentary “Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me” is a standout. It showed the country music legend’s fight against Alzheimer’s disease12. The film was praised for its deep look into Campbell’s journey, highlighting the challenges of Alzheimer’s.

Keach didn’t stop with “Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me.” He directed “Turning Point,” “Augie,”13 which shares Augie Nieto’s battle against ALS, and “David Crosby: Remember My Name.”12 He also produced “Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice,” winning a Grammy Award in 202112. These films show Keach’s skill in making complex stories come alive, touching audiences and raising awareness.

James Keach documentary films

Keach’s work in documentaries has brought him great praise12. He got the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 2010, proving his talent and social awareness12. Through his films, Keach has entertained and informed us, making a lasting impact in the entertainment world12.

Awards and Recognitions

James Keach has made a big mark in the entertainment world14. He’s known for his great acting in movies and TV14. Keach has also made documentaries and films that people love for their deep stories14. As a producer, he’s brought many projects to life14.

In 2010, Keach got the Ellis Island Medal of Honor14. This award was for his big impact on his community and the world14. Then, in 2021, he won a Grammy Award for producing the documentary “Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice,”14 showing his wide range of talents.

Award Year Category
Ellis Island Medal of Honor 2010 Outstanding Contributions
Grammy Award 2021 Producer
Tony Award Nomination 1969 Best Actor in a Play
Golden Globe Award 1988 Best Actor in a Miniseries
Primetime Emmy Award Nomination 1988 Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries
Drama Desk Awards Multiple Distinguished Performance
Helen Hayes Awards Multiple Outstanding Actor
Obie Awards Multiple Distinguished Performance
Hollywood Walk of Fame Star 2019 Recognition of Achievements

Keach’s talent and versatility have earned him a lot of praise15. He’s won four Drama Desk Awards and two Helen Hayes Awards for his acting15. He was also up for a Tony Award for his role in “Indians” in 196915.

Keach has won a Golden Globe and was nominated for an Emmy for his role in “Hemingway” in 198815.

His work on documentary films has also brought him a lot of recognition2. These films show his skill as a director and his knack for telling great stories2. He directed “Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me” and “Waiting for Lightning,” which got a lot of praise2.

james keach awards

Keach’s work has really made an impact2. He got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame15. This shows he’s a respected actor, director, and producer14152.

Personal Life

James Keach, a famous actor, director, and producer, has lived a fascinating life16. He was born on December 7, 1947, in Savannah, Georgia. He has been in over 50 movies16 and made and directed lots of TV shows16.

He has been married a few times, starting with Holly Collins, with whom he had a son named Kalen16. Then, he married Mimi Maynard before finding true love with Jane Seymour in 199316. They had twin sons, John Stacy and Kristopher Steven, named after Johnny Cash and Christopher Reeve, and Keach’s brother Stacy16. They separated in 2013 and divorced in 201516.

Even with ups and downs in his personal life, Keach has kept focusing on his work. He directed “Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me,” which got an Oscar nod and won Grammys16. His latest film, “Turning Point,” is about finding a cure for Alzheimer’s, a project he’s worked on for six years16.

Marriages Children
Holly Collins Kalen
Mimi Maynard
Jane Seymour John Stacy, Kristopher Steven

Keach’s dedication to his work and personal life shows his versatility and strength as an artist17. His acting and filmmaking have won him wide praise, making him a key creative figure in entertainment17.

James Keach Personal Life

Despite personal challenges, James Keach has kept pursuing meaningful stories and art18. His work has made a lasting impact, inspiring many and leaving a mark on the entertainment world18.

“The scientists involved in Alzheimer’s research aim to make a difference in the lives and health of other people rather than seeking monetary gain.”

A Legacy of Dedication and Resilience

James Keach has shown an amazing skill in balancing his personal and professional life, always aiming to make impactful work17. His life story, full of both successes and setbacks, shows the power of hard work and the lasting effect of the arts17.

Conclusion

James Keach has made a big mark in the entertainment world. He’s known for his work as an actor, director, and producer19. He’s been in many movies, like “The Long Riders” and “Walk the Line”. He’s also made films, showing his hard work and skill20.

Keach has brought important stories to life in biographical dramas and documentaries19. He’s won many awards, including the Ellis Island Medal of Honor and a Grammy Award. This proves he’s a respected figure in the industry19.

Keach’s career keeps growing, and his work will keep inspiring people20. He moves easily between acting, directing, and producing. He picks stories that really grab you, making him a true star of entertainment21.

James Keach is known for his great biopics, documentaries, and acting19. His work as a versatile artist will be remembered for a long time19. We’re excited to see what he does next in his career20.

FAQ

What is James Keach known for?

James Keach is an American actor, director, and producer. He’s known for his work in biographical dramas. His most famous role was in the Johnny Cash biopic “Walk the Line.”

What are some of James Keach’s notable acting roles?

Keach has been in many films. Some of his most famous roles are in “The Long Riders,” “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” and “The Razor’s Edge.” He also starred in “Wildcats” and “Moving Violations.”

What are some of James Keach’s directorial and producer credits?

Keach has directed and produced many films and TV shows. Some of his work includes “False Identity,” “The Stars Fell on Henrietta,” and “Camouflage.” He also directed TV series like “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman” and “JAG.”

What was James Keach’s involvement in the film “Walk the Line”?

Keach was a producer on “Walk the Line” in 2005. This biographical drama told the story of Johnny Cash and June Carter. The film starred Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon, who both won Oscars for their roles.

What other documentary films has James Keach worked on?

Keach has made many acclaimed documentaries. Some of his notable works include “Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me,” which focused on the country legend’s fight against Alzheimer’s. He also directed “Turning Point,” “Augie,” “David Crosby: Remember My Name,” and “Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice.”

What awards and recognition has James Keach received?

Keach has received many awards for his work. In 2010, he got the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. In 2021, he won a Grammy Award as a producer for “Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice.”

What is known about James Keach’s personal life?

Keach has been married several times, including to actress Jane Seymour. They had twin sons named after Johnny Cash and Christopher Reeve. His brother, actor Stacy Keach, is also a source of inspiration for their names.

Source Links

  1. James Keach – https://watch.plex.tv/person/james-keach
  2. 16 Mind-blowing Facts About James Keach – https://facts.net/celebrity/16-mind-blowing-facts-about-james-keach/
  3. Q&A with – https://www.easterseals.com/support-and-education/for-caregivers/qa-with-glen-campbell-ill-be-me-director-james-keach.html
  4. The Long Riders – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Long_Riders
  5. James Keach – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Keach
  6. James Keach – https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/james-keach/credits/3000048217/
  7. James Keach: Life and Career of a Renowned Actor and Director – https://medium.com/@newsknol/james-keach-life-and-career-of-a-renowned-actor-and-director-fc568458d1ca
  8. James Keach – https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/james_keach
  9. Walk the Line – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walk_the_Line
  10. ‘Walk the Line’: How James Mangold Uncovered the Emotional History of Johnny Cash • Cinephilia & Beyond – https://cinephiliabeyond.org/walk-the-line-how-james-mangold-uncovered-the-emotional-history-of-johnny-cash/
  11. Walk the Line | Rotten Tomatoes – https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/walk_the_line
  12. James Keach – Wikipedia – https://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Keach
  13. Behind the Film: Q&A with Augie Nieto and director James Keach – https://www.24hourfitness.com/24life/fitness/2018/behind-the-film-qa-with-augie-nieto-and-director-james-keach
  14. The Ultimate Guide To James Keach: Actor, Director, And Producer – https://celebritybuzz.blob.core.windows.net/unitedkingdomnews2/james-keach.html
  15. Stacy Keach – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stacy_Keach
  16. James Keach Interview: Famed Filmmaker Focuses on Unsung Heroes of Fight to Cure Alzheimer’s – https://smashinginterviews.com/interviews/directors/james-keach-interview-famed-filmmaker-focuses-on-unsung-heroes-of-fight-to-cure-alzheimers
  17. 16 Mind-blowing Facts About James Keach – https://facts.net/celebrity/16-mind-blowing-facts-about-james-keach
  18. James Keach | Biography, Movies News – https://www.fandango.com/people/james-keach-346008
  19. United States v. Keach, 480 F.2d 1274 – https://casetext.com/case/united-states-v-keach
  20. Love Letters (1983) – https://diaryofamoviemaniac.wordpress.com/2022/05/27/love-letters-1983/
  21. PDF – https://projects.sare.org/wp-content/uploads/1005221ipps-2015-poster.pdf

 

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