**David Clennon** (born May 10, 1943, in Waukegan, Illinois) is an American actor, recognized as one of Hollywood's most reliable and versatile character actors.

His film career is marked by memorable supporting roles, often playing authoritative figures, intellectuals, or professionals such as scientists, doctors, lawyers, or government officials. Clennon is known for his ability to bring intensity and depth to his characters, even in brief appearances.

Among his most significant roles are Kaczmarek in *Being There* (1979), journalist Charles Horman in *Missing* (1982), and the sarcastic helicopter pilot Palmer in John Carpenter's *The Thing* (1982), a role for which he is particularly remembered. He also starred in Sophie's Choice (1982) and more recent films such as Syriana (2005) and The Machinist (2004). His style is characterized by measured but incisive acting, capable of bringing complexity to seemingly secondary characters.