Kurtwood Larson Smith, born in New Lisbon, Wisconsin, on July 3, 1943, is an American actor and voice actor. Known for his versatility and ability to portray authoritarian figures, often antagonists, he first gained major recognition for his role as the cruel criminal Clarence Boddicker in the science fiction film *RoboCop* (1987). However, he achieved his greatest international popularity playing the gruff but beloved patriarch Red Forman in the hit sitcom *That '70s Show* (1998-2006), a role he later reprised in the sequel *That '90s Show*. His extensive filmography also includes significant roles in films such as *Dead Poets Society* (1989), as Neil Perry's strict father, and *Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country* (1991). Also active in theater, where he has received several Drama-Logue Awards for his performances, Smith is a prolific voice actor for animated series and video games, confirming his status as an eclectic and esteemed character actor in the American entertainment landscape.