Xander Berkeley is a versatile American actor known for his compelling performances in both film and television. With a career spanning over four decades, he has portrayed everything from villains to government agents, leaving a lasting impression in shows like 24, The Walking Dead, and Nikita. His artistic talents extend beyond acting—he’s also a painter, sculptor, and make-up artist, making him one of Hollywood’s most multidimensional figures.
Quick Bio
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Alexander Harper Berkeley |
Date of Birth | December 16, 1955 |
Age (2025) | 69 years old |
Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
Nationality | American |
Height | 6’0″ (183 cm) |
Weight | 75 kg (165 lbs) |
Hair Color | Salt-and-pepper |
Eye Color | Blue |
Occupation | Actor, Painter, Sculptor, Make-up Artist |
Spouse | Sarah Clarke (m. 2002) |
Children | Olwyn Harper, Rowan Amara |
Notable Works | 24, The Walking Dead, Terminator 2, Nikita |
Early Life and Background

Xander Berkeley was born on December 16, 1955, in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in New Jersey. His father, Peter Berkeley, was a painter, and his mother, Margaret Berkeley, was a schoolteacher who also sewed costumes for his school plays. Growing up in a creative household, Xander was surrounded by art, literature, and performance. At age 16, he joined an experimental theater troupe connected to Joseph Chaikin’s Open Theater, which deeply influenced his approach to acting and storytelling.
Family and Upbringing
Berkeley’s upbringing was steeped in artistic expression. His parents encouraged his creative pursuits, and he quickly gravitated toward community theater and school productions. The nurturing environment helped him develop a love for character work and visual storytelling. His early exposure to theater laid the foundation for a career that would span genres and mediums.
Education and Artistic Training
Xander attended Hampshire College in Massachusetts, where he studied acting through the Five College Consortium, including Amherst, Smith, Mount Holyoke, and UMass. He later trained with mentors from the Royal Academy of Arts, HB Studios, and even spent time at The Actor’s Studio with Lee Strasberg. This diverse education shaped his methodical approach to acting and his appreciation for craftsmanship in performance.
Career Beginnings
Berkeley’s first film role was in Mommie Dearest (1981), where he played the adult version of Christopher Crawford. He quickly landed TV roles in shows like MASH*, Miami Vice, and The A-Team. His early film appearances in Sid and Nancy and Deadly Dreams showcased his ability to play intense, nuanced characters. These roles helped him build a reputation as a reliable character actor.
Breakthrough Roles
In 1991, Xander played Todd Voight in Terminator 2: Judgment Day, a role that brought him mainstream recognition. He followed with memorable performances in Candyman, Apollo 13, Air Force One, and Gattaca. Known for portraying complex authority figures and villains, Berkeley brought depth and humanity to roles that could have easily been one-dimensional.
Television Success
Berkeley’s television career is equally impressive. He starred as George Mason in 24 (2001–2003), a role that earned him critical acclaim. He later played Percy Rose in Nikita, Sheriff McAllister in The Mentalist, and Gregory in The Walking Dead (2016–2018). His ability to embody morally ambiguous characters made him a standout in ensemble casts and genre television.
Voice Acting and Artistic Pursuits
Beyond live-action roles, Xander has voiced characters in Teen Titans, Gargoyles, Spider-Man, and Batman. He’s also an accomplished painter, sculptor, and make-up artist. Notably, he designed his own makeup for 24 when his character suffered radiation sickness. His artistic talents enrich his performances and reflect his multifaceted creativity.
Age and Physical Appearance

As of 2025, Xander Berkeley is 69 years old. He stands at 6’0″ (183 cm) and weighs approximately 75 kg (165 lbs). With salt-and-pepper hair, blue eyes, and a slim build, he’s known for his receding hairline, affable smile, and distinctive voice. His physical features have become part of his screen identity, often lending authenticity to his roles.
Relationships and Personal Life

Xander met actress Sarah Clarke on the set of 24 in 2001. They married on September 7, 2002, and have two daughters: Olwyn Harper (born 2006) and Rowan Amara (born 2010). The couple maintains a private lifestyle, splitting their time between Los Angeles and Maine. Their relationship is admired for its stability and mutual respect, especially in an industry known for fleeting romances2.
Personality and Interests
Berkeley is passionate about art, literature, and travel. He enjoys cooking, mentoring young actors, and supporting environmental causes. Known for his intellectual curiosity and gentle demeanor, he often cites classic films and directors as inspirations. His interests reflect a life dedicated to creative exploration and personal growth3.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Xander Berkeley’s legacy lies in his versatility and depth as a performer. He’s respected for bringing authenticity to supporting roles and for elevating ensemble casts. His work in genre television, independent film, and voice acting has influenced a generation of actors. Berkeley’s commitment to artistic integrity and craftsmanship makes him a quiet force in Hollywood.
Awards and Recognition
Berkeley has earned several accolades, including:
- Streamy Award for The Booth at the End (2013)
- Rome International Film Festival Jury Award for Pony (2014)
- CinEuphoria Merit Award for The Walking Dead ensemble (2020)
While not always in the spotlight, his performances consistently receive critical praise and industry respect3.
Conclusion
Xander Berkeley is more than a character actor—he’s a storyteller, artist, and mentor. His journey from experimental theater to blockbuster films is a testament to passion, versatility, and dedication. Whether voicing animated heroes or portraying conflicted villains, Berkeley brings depth, emotion, and authenticity to every role. His legacy continues to grow, inspiring audiences and artists alike.
FAQs
Who is Xander Berkeley?
Xander Berkeley is an American actor known for his roles in 24, The Walking Dead, Terminator 2, and over 200 film and TV projects.
When was Xander Berkeley born?
He was born on December 16, 1955, in Brooklyn, New York, and is 69 years old as of 2025.
What is Xander Berkeley’s most famous role?
He is widely recognized for playing George Mason in 24 and Gregory in The Walking Dead, along with Todd Voight in Terminator 2.
Is Xander Berkeley married?
Yes, he has been married to actress Sarah Clarke since 2002. They met while filming 24 and have two daughters.
What are Xander Berkeley’s artistic talents?
In addition to acting, he is a painter, sculptor, and make-up artist. He even designed his own makeup for 24.
What is Xander Berkeley’s height and appearance?
He stands at 6’0″ (183 cm), weighs around 75 kg (165 lbs), and has salt-and-pepper hair and blue eyes.
What awards has Xander Berkeley won?
He won a Streamy Award for The Booth at the End, a Rome International Film Festival Jury Award, and a CinEuphoria Merit Award for The Walking Dead.
What is Xander Berkeley’s net worth?
As of 2021, his net worth was estimated to be over $2 million, earned through decades of work in film, TV, and art.
What voice roles has Xander Berkeley performed?
He voiced characters in Teen Titans, Gargoyles, Spider-Man, and Batman, showcasing his range in animation.
Is Xander Berkeley still active in acting?
Yes, he continues to act in films and series, including recent appearances in The Mandalorian and Tales of the Empire
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