Image credits: Wikimedia Commons
Billy Bob Thornton
August 4, 1955
Hot Springs, Arkansas, US
71 Years Old
Leo
Who Is Billy Bob Thornton?
Billy Bob Thornton is an American actor, filmmaker, and musician, recognized for his distinctive voice and ability to embody complex, often intense, characters. His versatile career spans writing, directing, and starring in critically acclaimed projects, establishing him as a significant presence in Hollywood.
He garnered widespread attention for his independent drama Sling Blade, which he wrote, directed, and starred in, earning an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. This breakout film cemented his reputation as a formidable talent with a unique cinematic vision.
Early Life and Education
Growing up in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Billy Bob Thornton was the eldest son of William Raymond "Billy Ray" Thornton, a high school teacher, and Virginia Roberta Faulkner, a self-proclaimed psychic. His early life in rural Arkansas included living in various towns and a childhood spent in a home without electricity or running water.
He attended Malvern High School and later enrolled in Henderson State University, where he studied psychology. However, Thornton left after two semesters to pursue his artistic aspirations, eventually moving to Los Angeles to chase acting and writing opportunities.
Notable Relationships
A string of high-profile romances has marked Billy Bob Thornton's personal life, including marriages to actresses Angelina Jolie and Connie Angland. He was notably engaged to Laura Dern before his marriage to Jolie in 2000.
Thornton is currently married to Connie Angland, whom he wed in 2014 after they began dating in 2003. He shares four children: Amanda Thornton, William Langston Thornton, Harry James Thornton, and Bella Thornton, the latter with Angland.
Career Highlights
Billy Bob Thornton achieved his breakthrough with the 1996 independent drama Sling Blade, which he wrote, directed, and starred in, earning an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. His intense performance also secured a nomination for Best Actor, establishing his profound dramatic capabilities.
Beyond his acting prowess, Thornton expanded into television, earning a Golden Globe Award for his lead role as Lorne Malvo in the first season of the FX series Fargo. He also tours and records music with his band, The Boxmasters, showcasing his diverse artistic ventures.
Signature Quote
“Somewhere along the line we stopped believing we could do anything. And if we don't have our dreams, we have nothing.”