Image credits: Wikimedia Commons
Timothy Olyphant
May 20, 1968
Honolulu, Hawaii, US
58 Years Old
Taurus
Who Is Timothy Olyphant?
Timothy David Olyphant is an American actor, celebrated for his charismatic yet intense portrayals across film and television. His diverse roles often blend a dry wit with compelling dramatic depth.
He first captivated a wider audience with his commanding portrayal of Sheriff Seth Bullock in HBO's acclaimed western series Deadwood. This standout performance quickly established him as a formidable presence in the industry.
Early Life and Education
Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, Timothy Olyphant moved to Modesto, California, at age two, where his father worked as a wine executive. He was a competitive swimmer throughout his youth, even reaching national finals.
He attended Fred C. Beyer High School and later the University of Southern California, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Following college, Olyphant explored stand-up comedy before committing to acting, studying at the William Esper Studio in New York.
Notable Relationships
Timothy Olyphant has been married to his college sweetheart, Alexis Knief, since 1991, a relationship that has spanned over three decades. Their enduring partnership is a cornerstone of his personal life, with Olyphant often crediting her support for his career longevity.
The couple shares three children: daughters Grace Katherine Olyphant and Vivian Olyphant, and son Henry Olyphant. His daughter Vivian notably appeared as his character's daughter in the series Justified: City Primeval.
Career Highlights
Timothy Olyphant's career is largely defined by his iconic lawman roles, most notably starring as Deputy US Marshal Raylan Givens in the FX modern-day western Justified. His nuanced performance earned him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination in 2011.
Beyond his law enforcement archetypes, Olyphant expanded his range with roles like Joel Hammond in the Netflix horror-comedy Santa Clarita Diet. He also made memorable guest appearances in popular series such as The Mandalorian, The Office, and Fargo.
Signature Quote
“I'm attracted to roles that are unpredictable, and if I can get my hands on something like that, I'm thrilled. I like performances where you don't know what's coming, moment to moment.”