Elliott Gould Bio
Elliott Gould (born August 29, 1938) is an American actor known for his distinctive voice and versatile performances. His breakthrough role was in the film Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice (1969), for which he received a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The following year, he portrayed Capt. Trapper John McIntyre in the Robert Altman film M*A*S*H (1970), earning BAFTA and Golden Globe nominations. Gould continued to collaborate with Altman in films such as The Long Goodbye (1973) and California Split (1974). He is also recognized for his roles in the Ocean’s film series and for his appearances in popular television shows like Friends.
Early Life and Background
Elliott Gould was born in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, New York City. His mother, Lucille Raver, sold artificial flowers to beauty shops, while his father, Bernard Goldstein, worked in the garment industry as a textiles buyer. Gould’s family is Jewish, with roots tracing back to Ukraine, Poland, and Russia. He graduated from the Professional Children’s School, which helped nurture his early interest in acting. His upbringing in a culturally rich environment contributed to his passion for the performing arts.
Path to Hollywood
Gould began his acting career on Broadway in the late 1950s, making his professional debut in a minor role in the musical Rumple (1957). He followed this with small parts in successful productions such as Say, Darling (1958–59) and Irma La Douce (1960–61). In 1962, he starred in the Broadway production of I Can Get It for You Wholesale, where he met Barbra Streisand, who would later become his first wife. Gould made his feature film debut in the comedy Quick, Let’s Get Married (1964), which was not released until 1971. His next film appearance was in The Night They Raided Minsky’s (1968), which provided him with further exposure in the industry.
Elliott Gould Career
Early Career (1964–1969)
Gould’s early career was marked by a series of notable performances that showcased his talent. He gained significant recognition with his role in Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice (1969), which was a critical and commercial success. His performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, solidifying his status as a rising star in Hollywood. In 1969, he signed a four-picture contract with 20th Century Fox, leading to his iconic role in M*A*S*H (1970), which became a cultural phenomenon.
Breakthrough (1970–1979)
Gould’s portrayal of Capt. Trapper John McIntyre in M*A*S*H (1970) marked a turning point in his career. The film was a massive hit and received critical acclaim, earning several Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. Following this success, Gould starred in a series of films that further established his reputation, including The Long Goodbye (1973) and California Split (1974). His performance in The Long Goodbye was particularly praised for its unique interpretation of the detective genre.
Notable Works and Milestones
Gould’s signature works include his roles in the Ocean’s film series, where he played Reuben Tishkoff. He also received critical acclaim for his performance in Bugsy (1991) and appeared in the ensemble cast of A Bridge Too Far (1977). Throughout his career, Gould has been recognized for his contributions to film and television, including his memorable role as Jack Geller on the sitcom Friends, which introduced him to a new generation of viewers.
Elliott Gould Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Elliott Gould has received several award nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice. His performances have garnered critical acclaim, contributing to his status as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Elliott Gould Awards Won
While specific awards won by Elliott Gould are not detailed in the provided information, his contributions to film and television have been recognized by audiences and critics alike, solidifying his legacy as a talented actor.
Elliott Gould Family
Elliott Gould has been married three times, twice to the same woman, Barbra Streisand. He has one son, Jason, from his marriage to Jennifer Bogart. Gould’s family background and personal life have played a significant role in shaping his identity as an artist.
Personal Life
Gould has expressed a strong connection to his Jewish identity and has been involved in various charitable causes, including serving on the SAG-AFTRA National Board of Directors. He has narrated documentaries and participated in initiatives to preserve cultural heritage. Gould’s personal experiences and relationships have influenced his work and public persona.
