Tom Berenger

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TomBer1 Last Updated: 1/15/25
Real Name: Thomas Michael Moore
Born: May 31, 1949
Height: 5' 10"

Grade: A
Actor/Movie Star: 0%-100%
Prime Years: 1977, 1983, 1986-91, 1993-96, 1995-98, and 2002
Most Famous Film: Platoon (1986)
Most Infamous Film: None
Masterpiece: Platoon (1986)
Outstanding: The Big Chill (1983), Betrayed (1988), Major League (1989), Sniper (1993), and Last of the Dogmen (1995)
Honorable: Looking for Mr. Goodbar (1977), Someone to Watch Over Me (1987), Last Rites (1988), Born on the Fourth of July (1989), Love at Large (1990), Shattered (1991), Body Language (1995), Shadow of Doubt (1998), and The Junction Boys (2002)

Opinion: One of the most handsome actors in Hollywood history, Tom Berenger had always made a movie better with his mere presence. He excelled the most in mystery/sexual thrillers of the neo-noir genre. Although famous for being part of the star-studded cast in The Big Chill, it wasn't until 1986 that Tom Berenger turned in the most dramatic performance of his career for Platoon. As a result, he got robbed of an Oscar. What made Tom Berenger an exceptional actor was he's very believable as a normal guy, evidenced in Betrayed.

Confirmed: Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Came from a long line of Irish ancestors. Graduated from the University of Missouri in 1971 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism. Worked a bit in theater while holding a job as a flight attendant for Eastern Airlines. Changed his last name to "Berenger" because there existed an actor named Tom Moore.

Eventually landed roles in daytime soap opera TV show and small films. Became unforgettable when his character proved to be the worst of them all in Looking for Mr. Goodbar. Achieved a breakthrough when he appeared in The Big Chill and hit the zenith of his career during Platoon which resulted in an Academy Award nomination. Often cited Betrayed or Gettysburg the best performance he had given. Saw his A-list status go away dramatically, beginning with The Substitute, although he continued to be popular in Sniper films.

Rumors: None.