Christopher Walton Cooper, known widely as Chris Cooper, is an acclaimed American actor. He broke into fame with his role as Sheriff July Johnson in the renowned Western television miniseries Lonesome Dove (1989). Cooper's portfolio includes numerous major Hollywood films such as A Time to Kill (1996), October Sky (1999), American Beauty (1999), The Bourne Identity (2002), and Capote (2005); established himself as a versatile actor. His skillful portrayal of roles earned him both the Academy Award and Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor for Adaptation. His contributions to the film industry extended to historical and political thrillers like Breach (2007), The Company You Keep (2012), and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014). Cooper's talent is recognized not only in Hollywood but is also internationally acknowledged. His known for frequent collaborations with director John Sayles on projects including Matewan (1987), City of Hope (1991), and Silver City (2004).

Cooper was born on July 9, 1951, in Kansas City, Missouri. He grew up in the suburbs of Kansas City and spent his summers at his family's cattle ranch. He was also raised in Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Houston. He started his career in acting to overcome his "overpowering shyness" while studying at the University of Missouri. After graduation, he moved to New York City, lived with four other aspiring actors and dancers, and supported himself by renovating apartments. He began his film career by doing stage work for 12 years with the Actors Theater of Louisville and the Seattle Repertory, followed by his film debut in Matewan (1987). Cooper continues to create significant contributions to the film industry with his continuous outstanding performances and is widely recognized as one of the most talented and versatile actors.