Craig Bierko

Craig Philip Bierko, born on August 18, 1964, is an eminent American actor and singer widely recognized for his versatility in both television and film roles. Born and raised in Rye Brook, New York, Bierko developed an early interest in acting, inspired by his mother Pat's engagement with The Harrison Players, a local community theater. Following high school, Bierko pursued journalism at Boston University's School of Public Communications but soon realized his passion lay in the performing arts. He subsequently transferred to Northwestern University to study acting alongside notable contemporaries such as David Schwimmer and Stephen Colbert, graduating in 1986 with a BS in theatre arts. Bierko credits his role in the 1996 action film 'The Long Kiss Goodnight' for leading him to intriguing characters in films such as 'Cinderella Man' and 'Scary Movie 4'. He was originally chosen for Chandler Bing's character in 'Friends' but declined, a decision that has inspired many stories over the years. Besides films, he has also appeared on television series like 'Sex and the City', 'Boston Legal', 'Unhitched', and 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit'. Bierko also received a Tony Award nomination for his Broadway debut in 'The Music Man' in 2000. In 2013, he delivered a strong performance as Miss Trunchbull in 'Matilda the Musical', demonstrating his distinguished skill set.