Kevin Kline, a name synonymous with versatility, humor, and a touch of dignified mischief, has graced stage and screen for over four decades. From his Tony Award-winning performances on Broadway to his unforgettable characters in iconic films, Kline has captivated audiences with his charisma, intellect, and undeniable talent. This is the story of a true Renaissance man, an actor who effortlessly shifts between drama and comedy, classics and contemporary pieces, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Early Life and the Call of the Stage
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1947, Kevin Delaney Kline's path to stardom wasn't immediately clear. His initial passion wasn't acting but music. He pursued classical piano, even briefly attending Indiana University's prestigious music school. However, he soon realized his true calling lay elsewhere: the captivating world of theater.
Transferring to the University's drama department, Kline found his element. He blossomed under the tutelage of theater professor John Stix, who instilled in him a deep appreciation for the classics and a commitment to the craft of acting. This foundation would serve him well throughout his career, evident in his later mastery of Shakespearean roles.
The Juilliard Years and the Birth of a Company
In 1970, Kline's talent earned him a scholarship to the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City. He immersed himself in his studies, honing his skills alongside fellow aspiring actors who would become lifelong friends and collaborators, including Patti LuPone and David Ogden Stiers.
After graduating from Juilliard in 1972, Kline, LuPone, and Stiers, along with other classmates, formed the City Center Acting Company, later renamed The Acting Company. Under the guidance of renowned director John Houseman, the company toured the United States, performing Shakespearean plays and other classical works. This invaluable experience cemented Kline's love for the stage and provided him with a strong foundation in classical theater.
Broadway Triumph and Tony Awards
In 1978, Kline made his Broadway debut in a production of "The Pirates of Penzance," showcasing not only his acting abilities but also his impressive singing voice. His performance earned him his first Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical, a testament to his burgeoning talent and versatility.
He continued to enthrall Broadway audiences throughout the 1980s, starring in productions like "On the Twentieth Century" and a revival of "Henry V." His performances were met with critical acclaim, solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with on the American stage. He received his second Tony Award, this time for Best Actor in a Musical, for his role in the 1981 revival of "On the Twentieth Century."
Conquering Hollywood: A Fish Called Wanda and Beyond
While the stage remained his first love, Hollywood came calling in the 1980s. He made his film debut in 1982 with "Sophie's Choice," starring opposite Meryl Streep. His powerful performance as Nathan, a charming but deeply troubled Holocaust survivor, showcased his dramatic range and earned him critical acclaim.
He seamlessly transitioned between dramatic and comedic roles, appearing in films like "The Big Chill," "Silverado," and "Cry Freedom." However, it was his role in the 1988 comedy "A Fish Called Wanda" that catapulted him to international stardom. As Otto, a hilariously inept jewel thief with delusions of intellectualism, Kline stole every scene he was in. His comedic timing and physical humor were impeccable, earning him both critical acclaim and a coveted Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
The Versatile Leading Man: From Dave to De-Lovely
The 1990s saw Kline solidify his position as a versatile leading man. He starred in a string of successful comedies, including "I Love You to Death," "Soapdish," and "Dave." In "Dave," he delivered a heartwarming and hilarious performance as a presidential look-alike thrust into the role of Commander-in-Chief.
Never shying away from challenging roles, Kline continued to explore his dramatic range. He delivered a powerful performance as a gay high school teacher who is outed by a former student in the 1997 film "In & Out." His sensitive and nuanced portrayal earned him critical acclaim and helped spark important conversations about LGBTQ+ representation in Hollywood.
Kline also returned to his musical theater roots in the 2004 biographical musical "De-Lovely," portraying legendary composer Cole Porter. He showcased his impressive singing and piano skills, bringing Porter's iconic music to life on the big screen.
A Return to Broadway and Continued Success
Despite his success in Hollywood, Kline never forgot his love for the stage. He returned to Broadway periodically throughout his career, starring in productions like "The Iceman Cometh," "King Lear," and "Present Laughter." His performances were met with critical acclaim, reaffirming his status as one of the greatest stage actors of his generation. His portrayal of Garry Essendine in "Present Laughter" earned him his third Tony Award, this time for Best Actor in a Play, in 2017.
Kline has continued to work steadily in both film and television, appearing in movies like "The Conspirator," "My Old Lady," and "Beauty and the Beast" (2017), as well as lending his voice to animated films like "The Road to El Dorado" and "Rio." He has also taken on television roles, including a recurring part in the HBO series "The Knick."
Kevin Kline: A Legacy of Talent and Grace
Kevin Kline's career is a testament to his enduring talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft. He moves effortlessly between genres and mediums, captivating audiences with his charisma, wit, and undeniable presence. He is a true Renaissance man, a rare breed of actor who can make you laugh one minute and break your heart the next.
From his Tony Award-winning performances on Broadway to his iconic roles in films like "A Fish Called Wanda" and "Dave," Kline has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. He is a true legend, an actor whose work will continue to be enjoyed and admired for generations to come.