Introduction
Michael Kostroff is a well-known actor and lawyer who has been featured in various movies, TV shows, and commercials. He is best known for his role as Maurice Levy in the critically acclaimed TV series “The Wire.” Kostroff is also a talented stage actor who has appeared in numerous Broadway productions. In this article, we will take a closer look at the career of Michael Kostroff and his contributions to the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Career
Michael Kostroff was born on May 22, 1961, in New York City. He grew up in Queens and attended the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts. After graduating, Kostroff attended the Juilliard School, where he studied drama. He began his acting career in the 1980s, appearing in various off-Broadway productions.
During this time, Kostroff also worked as a lawyer. He graduated from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in 1986 and worked as an attorney for several years. However, he eventually decided to pursue acting full-time, and his career took off in the 1990s.
Notable Roles in Movies and TV Shows
Maurice Levy in “The Wire”
Michael Kostroff’s most famous role is that of Maurice Levy, the corrupt defense attorney in the HBO series “The Wire.” Kostroff appeared in 23 episodes of the show, which aired from 2002 to 2008. His portrayal of Levy was praised by critics and helped to establish him as a talented character actor.
Thenardier in “Les Misérables”
Kostroff also played the role of Thenardier in the 2012 film adaptation of “Les Misérables.” This was a departure from his usual roles, as Thenardier is a comedic character. However, Kostroff’s performance was well-received, and he brought a unique energy to the role.
Commercial Work
In addition to his work in movies and TV shows, Michael Kostroff has also appeared in numerous commercials. He is perhaps best known for his role as the “Mick Nussfaur” character in a series of humorous commercials for the GEICO insurance company. Kostroff’s comedic timing and delivery made him a fan favorite in these ads.
Stage Work
Broadway Productions
Michael Kostroff is also a talented stage actor who has appeared in numerous Broadway productions. Some of his notable roles include Max Bialystock in “The Producers,” The Wizard in “Wicked,” and The Gangster in “Kiss Me, Kate.” Kostroff’s stage work has earned him critical acclaim and helped to establish him as a versatile performer.
One-Man Shows
In addition to his work on Broadway, Michael Kostroff has also written and performed several one-man shows. These shows, which often feature Kostroff playing multiple characters, have been well-received by audiences and critics alike. Some of his most popular shows include “The Haunted Actor” and “The Worst Audition Ever.”
Conclusion
Michael Kostroff is a talented actor and lawyer who has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. His work in movies, TV shows, and commercials has earned him a loyal fan following, while his stage work has established him as a versatile performer. Kostroff’s ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles has made him a sought-after character actor, and his career shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
FAQ
Who is Michael Kostroff?
Michael Kostroff is an American actor and lawyer who has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows.
What are some of Michael Kostroff’s notable roles?
Michael Kostroff is best known for his roles in TV shows like “The Wire,” “The Deuce,” and “The Blacklist.” He has also appeared in movies like “The Good Shepherd” and “Molly’s Game.”
How did Michael Kostroff become an actor?
Michael Kostroff started his acting career in the early 1990s, after studying theater at Northwestern University. He landed his first major role in the Broadway production of “The Producers” in 2001.
What is Michael Kostroff’s background in law?
Michael Kostroff earned a law degree from Georgetown University Law Center in 1986 and practiced law for several years before pursuing acting full-time. He has also written a book about the legal profession called “Letters from Backstage: The Adventures of a Touring Stage Actor Turned Ivy League Lawyer.”
Has Michael Kostroff ever combined his acting and legal careers?
Yes, Michael Kostroff has used his legal background to inform his acting work. He has played lawyers in several TV shows and movies, including “The Wire” and “The Good Wife.” He has also taught acting workshops for lawyers and law students.
