Craig Richard Nelson

Craig Richard Nelson (born September 17, 1947) is an American actor known for his work in theater, film, and television. He was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, and grew up as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Nelson studied acting at the University of Utah and New York University's Tisch School of the Arts. His breakout role came in the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical Two Gentlemen of Verona. He gained recognition in film with his performance as a mean-spirited law student in The Paper Chase. Nelson has appeared in several Robert Altman films, including A Wedding, 3 Women, and Quintet. He also had a recurring role as drama teacher Mr. Spacek on the 1980s television show Square Pegs.