James Robert Rebhorn was an exceptional American character actor known for his remarkable contribution to over 100 films, television series, and plays throughout his career. Born on September 1, 1948, Rebhorn's talent spanned across a variety of roles, including Los Alamos Doctor in Silkwood, Richard in Heart of Midnight, Dr. Sultan in Regarding Henry, and FBI Agent Flynn in White Sands. His recurring roles in TV series like Law & Order, Third Watch, The Book of Daniel, White Collar, Big Lake, and Homeland established his extensive range and depth as an actor.

Prior to his acting career, Rebhorn, who was of German descent, moved to Anderson, Indiana as a child and graduated from Madison Heights High School in 1966. He studied political science at Wittenberg University, Ohio, where he developed his acting skills in performances like Aristophanes' Lysistrata. After graduating in 1970, Rebhorn earned a Master of Fine Arts in acting from Columbia University's School of the Arts, marking the start of his illustrious career in theater, film, and television. His roles in series such as Guiding Light, As the World Turns, and The Adventures of Pete & Pete further underscored his exceptional acting prowess. Rebhorn's role in the Showtime series Homeland as Frank Mathison, who, like Rebhorn, battled bipolar disorder, was one of his most renowned characters. His career in theater included seven Broadway productions and numerous appearances with New York City's Roundabout Theatre Company.