Jeffrey Donovan
Biography
Jeffrey Donovan, born on May 11, 1968, is an American actor and director known for his compelling performances across film, television, and stage. With his versatility, nuanced portrayals, and commanding screen presence, Donovan has established himself as a highly respected and sought-after talent in the entertainment industry. Born in Amesbury, Massachusetts, Jeffrey Donovan developed an early passion for acting and storytelling. He honed his craft at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he studied drama and performed in various theater productions. After graduation, he furthered his training at the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University. Donovan began his acting career in the late 1990s, making appearances in television shows such as "Homicide: Life on the Street" and "Law & Order." However, it was his breakthrough role as Michael Westen in the hit USA Network series "Burn Notice" (2007-2013) that brought him widespread recognition and a dedicated fan base. Donovan's portrayal of a former spy navigating the world of covert operations captivated audiences and showcased his talent for blending action, drama, and dry humor. In addition to his television success, Jeffrey Donovan has made notable contributions to film. He has appeared in a range of genres, from crime dramas to comedies. Some of his notable film credits include "Changeling" (2008), directed by Clint Eastwood, "Hitch" (2005), "J. Edgar" (2011), and "Sicario: Day of the Soldado" (2018). Donovan's ability to bring depth and complexity to his characters has earned him critical acclaim and made him a sought-after actor in the industry. Jeffrey Donovan has also ventured into directing, further showcasing his talents behind the camera. He made his directorial debut with the film "Sicario: Day of the Soldado" (2018), where he helmed the short film "La Camioneta: The Journey of One American School Bus" (2012). Beyond his acting and directing pursuits, Jeffrey Donovan has been involved in philanthropy, supporting various charitable causes. He has participated in fundraising events and campaigns to raise awareness and funds for organizations dedicated to causes such as cancer research and supporting veterans.
Known For
All Movies (41)
- Wardriver2026 · as Bilson
- Surrounded2023 · as Wheeler
- R.I.P.D. 2: Rise of the Damned2022 · as Sheriff Roy Pulsipher
- Breaking2022 · as Major Riddick
- First Love2022 · as Greg Albright
- National Champions2021 · as Mark Titus
- Wrath of Man2021 · as Jackson
- Let Him Go2020 · as Bill Weboy
- Honest Thief2020 · as Sean Meyers
- Wonder Woman: Bloodlines2019 · as Steve Trevor (voice)
- Villains2019 · as George
- Lucy in the Sky2019 · as Jim Hunt
- Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile2019 · as Utah Defense Attorney John O'Connell
- Sicario: Day of the Soldado2018 · as Steve Forsing
- LBJ2017 · as John F. Kennedy
- Shot Caller2017 · as Bottles
- Sicario2015 · as Steve Forsing
- Extinction2015 · as Jack
- J. Edgar2011 · as Robert Kennedy
- Burn Notice: The Fall of Sam Axe2011 · as Michael Westen (cameo)
- Changeling2008 · as Captain J.J. Jones
- Hindsight2008 · as Paul
- Believe in Me2006 · as Clay Driscoll
- Come Early Morning2006 · as Cal Percell
- Hitch2005 · as Vance
- Sam & Joe2004 · as Eric
- Final Draft2003 · as Pascal (as Jeff Donovan)
- Purpose2002 · as Robert Jennings
- Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 22000 · as Jeffrey "Jeff" Patterson
- Bait2000 · as Julio
- When Trumpets Fade1998 · as Bobby
- Witness to the Mob1998 · as Agent #1
- Catherine's Grove1997 · as Thomas Mason
- Vegas Vacation1997 · as Hotel Employee (uncredited)
- Critical Choices1996 · as Randy
- Sleepers1996 · as Addison
- Throwing Down1995 · as Pete Gulley
- Briefcase, 8—
- Eleven Days—
- The Cycle— · as Marks
- Hal— · as Dan Oliver
All TV Shows (22)
- Le donne della Bibbia2026
- The Faithful2026 · as Abraham
- Law & Order: Organized Crime2021 · as Detective Frank Cosgrove
- INVINCIBLE2021 · as Machine Head (voice)
- Shut Eye2016 · as Charlie Haverford
- Fargo2014 · as Dodd Gerhardt
- Late Night with Seth Meyers2014 · as Self
- Burn Notice2007 · as Michael Westen
- Touching Evil2004 · as Detective David Creegan
- CSI: Miami2002 · as Todd Kendrick
- Monk2002 · as Steve Wagner
- Crossing Jordan2001 · as William Ivers
- Witchblade2001
- The Beat2000 · as Brad Urich
- Millennium1996 · as Bobby Webber
- The Pretender1996 · as Kyle/John Doe
- The Pretender1996 · as Kyle
- Spin City1996 · as Tom
- Homicide: Life on the Street1993 · as Newton Dell / Miles Dell
- Law & Order1990 · as Frank Cosgrove
- Law & Order1990 · as Eddie Nicodos
- Law & Order1990 · as Jacob Reese





