Joshua Mostel, born on December 21, 1946, in New York City, is an American actor known for his long and versatile career as a character actor. The son of celebrated actor Zero Mostel, he landed his first major role playing King Herod in the 1973 film adaptation of *Jesus Christ Superstar*. His filmography includes roles in numerous successful films, often in memorable supporting comic parts. Among his best-known works are *City Slickers* (1991), where he played Barry Shalowitz, *The Money Pit* (1986), and his collaborations with Adam Sandler in *Billy Madison* (1995), as Principal Max Anderson, and *Big Daddy* (1999). Also active in theater, he has appeared on Broadway in productions such as *An American Daughter* and *My Favorite Year*. Complementing his film and stage career, numerous television appearances have solidified his status as a reliable and respected actor in the American entertainment landscape.