character actor

British  

noun

1. an actor who specializes in playing odd or eccentric characters

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Example Sentences

The cause of death for Peter Greene, a character actor known for playing villains in movies including “Pulp Fiction” and “The Mask,” has been revealed by New York City’s Office of Chief Medical Examiner.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 19, 2026

While his friends were among the era’s pre-eminent leading men, Duvall had significant roles himself, but became best known as a character actor in supportive yet unforgettable performances.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 16, 2026

And while Madigan is a beloved, Oscar-nominated character actor, she’s not necessarily what many — at least those with power in Hollywood — would consider a major, ticket-selling movie star.

From Salon • Jan. 6, 2026

Baxter always considered himself a character actor rather than a comedian and was a reluctant celebrity, giving few interviews and declining to appear on chat shows.

From BBC • Dec. 12, 2025

Now," cried Sylvester, "wouldn't that make a capital scene on the stage? and what a splendid part it would be for a character actor.

From The Serapion Brethren. Vol. II by Hoffmann, Ernst Theordor Wilhelm