James Thomas Patrick Walsh, known as J. T. Walsh (1943-1998), was an American actor recognized as one of the most incisive and versatile character actors in American cinema of the 1980s and 1990s. After beginning his career in Off-Broadway theater, he made his film debut relatively late, quickly establishing himself thanks to his intense screen presence. He specialized in roles as authoritarian, morally ambiguous, or openly villainous characters, leaving an indelible mark in films such as *Good Morning, Vietnam*, *A Few Good Men*, *Hoffa*, *Sling Blade*, and *Breakdown*. Among his final performances, his role in *The Negotiator* is particularly notable. Although he never received major awards, his ability to create memorable characters earned him great respect from critics and colleagues. Upon his premature death, actor Jack Nicholson dedicated the Oscar he won for *As Good as It Gets* to him, a testament to the esteem in which he was held in Hollywood.