Justin Theroux (born August 10, 1971) is an American actor, screenwriter and television creator. He has worked across independent films, mainstream features and prestige television. Among the films associated with his early screen career are David Lynch's Mulholland Drive and Inland Empire. He is widely recognized for his role and creative involvement in the HBO drama series The Leftovers.
Career and artistic profile
Theroux began appearing in films and stage productions in the late 1990s and 2000s, developing a reputation for choosing unconventional projects and collaborating with auteur directors. His screen work spans supporting and leading roles as well as writing and producing; he is known for a deliberate, often introspective screen presence and for contributing to narrative development off camera.
Television and notable projects
On television Theroux reached broader recognition through The Leftovers, an adaptation of Tom Perrotta's novel developed for HBO. He served as a co‑creator and starring cast member, helping shape the show's tone and direction. For more on his screen credits and filmography see filmography and credits, and for information on the series itself visit the HBO page at The Leftovers.
Significance and style
Theroux's career illustrates the modern actor-writer hybrid: performing in demanding dramatic roles while also working behind the scenes on scripts and series development. He has been associated with films that favor surreal or challenging storytelling and with television that foregrounds character complexity and moral ambiguity.
Notable facts
- Born in 1971; active in film, television and writing.
- Worked with director David Lynch on multiple projects.
- Co‑created and starred in a high-profile HBO drama.
- Maintains a public profile that includes both artistic work and occasional media attention to his personal life.
Theroux continues to alternate between screen acting and creative roles behind the camera, contributing to projects that emphasize narrative risk and character-driven storytelling.