Timothy Hutton Bio
Timothy Hutton (born August 16, 1960) is an American actor and film director. He is the youngest recipient of the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, which he won at age 20 for his role in Ordinary People (1980). Hutton has since appeared regularly in feature films and on television, with notable roles including the drama Taps (1981), the spy film The Falcon and the Snowman (1985), and the horror film The Dark Half (1993), among others. Hutton’s career spans several decades, showcasing his versatility and talent in both acting and directing.
Early Life and Background
Timothy Hutton was born in Malibu, California. His father was actor Jim Hutton, and his mother, Maryline Adams, was a teacher. His parents divorced when he was three years old, and his mother took him and his older sister, Heidi, to Boston, and then to her hometown of Harwinton, Connecticut. The family returned to California when Hutton was 12 years old. Hutton’s upbringing was not steeped in show business, despite his father’s career. His mother sought to provide a broader education for her children, which included moving to Berkeley, California. In 1976, at the age of 15, Hutton sought out his father and moved in with him in Los Angeles. While attending Fairfax High School, he realized his passion for acting while playing Nathan Detroit in a school production of Guys and Dolls.
Path to Hollywood
Timothy Hutton’s career began with parts in several television movies, most notably the 1979 ABC TV film Friendly Fire. That same year, he played the son of Donna Reed in the NBC television film The Best Place to Be. His first feature film performance came in 1980 with Ordinary People, where he portrayed Conrad Jarrett. This role earned him both the Academy Award and the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor. Following this success, Hutton starred in the acclaimed 1981 ABC television film A Long Way Home. His next feature film, Taps, released in 1981, was popular with critics and audiences, solidifying his status as a rising star.
Timothy Hutton Career
Early Career (1965–1980)
Timothy Hutton’s early career was marked by significant achievements. His role in Ordinary People (1980) not only won him an Academy Award but also established him as a prominent actor in Hollywood. He followed this with notable performances in Taps (1981) and The Falcon and the Snowman (1985). Despite some box office struggles in the years following his initial success, Hutton continued to work steadily in both film and television.
Breakthrough (1980–1990)
Hutton’s breakthrough role in Ordinary People set the stage for a successful career. His portrayal of Conrad Jarrett was critically acclaimed and remains one of his signature performances. Following this, he starred in Taps, which featured a young ensemble cast that included Sean Penn and Tom Cruise. The film was well-received, further establishing Hutton’s reputation. He also appeared in The Falcon and the Snowman, which became a notable success, showcasing his ability to tackle complex characters.
Notable Works and Milestones
Timothy Hutton is best known for his role in Ordinary People, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. His career has included a variety of genres, from drama to horror, with significant works such as The Dark Half and Beautiful Girls. Hutton’s ability to adapt to different roles has made him a respected figure in the industry.
Timothy Hutton Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Timothy Hutton has received numerous nominations for his performances. His most notable nomination was for the Academy Awards, where he won for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Ordinary People.
Timothy Hutton Awards Won
Timothy Hutton has won several prestigious awards during his career. His most significant achievement is winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1981 for his role in Ordinary People.
| Award | Wins | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Academy Awards | 1 | 1981 |
Timothy Hutton Family
Timothy Hutton has been married twice. His first marriage was to actress Debra Winger from 1986 to 1990, and they had a son in 1987. He later married illustrator Aurore Giscard d’Estaing in 2000, with whom he had another son born in 2001.
Personal Life
Timothy Hutton has had a colorful personal life, having dated several notable actresses, including Elizabeth McGovern, Diane Lane, and Uma Thurman. His relationships and marriages have often been in the public eye, contributing to his profile as a prominent figure in Hollywood.







