Overview

Wentworth Earl Miller III (born June 2, 1972) is an American actor, screenwriter and producer who rose to international recognition for his portrayal of Michael Scofield in the television drama Prison Break. He has expanded his career to include genre television roles and screenwriting, and has been publicly active on human-rights and LGBT issues. Miller's work spans acting, modeling, and writing for feature films and television.

Early life and background

Miller was born in Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, England, and moved to Brooklyn, New York, with his family when he was an infant. He comes from a diverse family heritage that includes African-American, Jamaican, English, German, Jewish and Native American ancestry on his father's side and Russian, French, Dutch, Syrian and Lebanese background on his mother's side. He pursued higher education in the United States, earning a college degree before beginning his professional career in entertainment.

Career and major roles

Miller gained prominence in the mid-2000s as the intelligent and resourceful Michael Scofield on the Fox series Prison Break (original run 2005–2009, later revival appearances). The part earned him critical attention and a Golden Globe nomination. After Prison Break, Miller continued to work in television, appearing in comic-book–inspired series as Leonard Snart / Captain Cold in The Flash and its related ensemble series Legends of Tomorrow. In addition to episodic television, he has appeared in feature films and occasional modelling work.

Writing, producing and other projects

Beyond acting, Miller has written for film. His first produced screenplay was the psychological thriller Stoker (released in 2013), which marked his transition into writing for cinema. He has also taken on producing responsibilities on selected projects. Miller's interest in narrative and character work has shaped his move toward behind-the-camera roles while he maintains an acting presence.

Personal life, advocacy and public positions

Miller has been publicly involved in advocacy related to LGBT rights. In 2013 he came out publicly in a letter posted to GLAAD and declined an invitation to a Russian film festival in protest of anti-LGBT legislation in that country. Earlier in his career he had been private about his sexuality, but since 2013 he has spoken more openly about his identity and the political issues affecting LGBT people. He has also used his public platform to draw attention to civil-rights concerns and to discuss aspects of personal well‑being in interviews and public statements.

Notable facts and recognition

  • Breakthrough role: Michael Scofield in Prison Break, which brought mainstream recognition and awards contention.
  • Television genre work: recurring appearances as Captain Cold/Leonard Snart in The Flash and Legends of Tomorrow.
  • Screenwriter: credited for the screenplay of the film Stoker (2013).
  • Advocacy: publicly opposed Russian anti‑LGBT policies and used his platform to raise awareness of LGBT rights.

Further reading and sources