J.K. Simmons (born Jonathan Kimble Simmons in 1955) is an American actor known for his versatile film and television career.

He gained widespread recognition and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his intense performance in *Whiplash* (2014), as the fearsome jazz instructor Terence Fletcher. His other iconic roles include J. Jonah Jameson in Sam Raimi's *Spider-Man* trilogy, a role he reprised in subsequent Marvel Cinematic Universe films, and the caring father Mac MacGuff in *Juno* (2007).

Simmons is praised for his ability to embody authoritative, gruff, or stern characters, but also paternal and wise figures. His deep voice and commanding screen presence make him an extremely recognizable and sought-after character actor, capable of transitioning seamlessly from dramatic to comedic roles.