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.
1.9
Popularity38
Credits6.5
Rating26.5M
Budget86.6M
RevenueActing
Primarily2025 Wardriver
2025 Briefcase, 8
2023 Surrounded as Wheeler
2022 R.I.P.D. 2: Rise of the Damned as Sheriff Roy Pulsipher
2022 Breaking as Major Riddick
2022 First Love as Greg Albright
2021 National Champions as Mark Titus
2021 Wrath of Man as Jackson
2020 Let Him Go as Bill Weboy
2020 Honest Thief as Sean Meyers
2019 Wonder Woman: Bloodlines as Steve Trevor (voice)
2019 Villains as George
2019 Lucy in the Sky as Jim Hunt
2019 Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile as Utah Defense Attorney John O'Connell
2018 Sicario: Day of the Soldado as Steve Forsing
2017 LBJ as John F. Kennedy
2017 Shot Caller as Bottles
2015 Sicario as Steve Forsing
2015 Extinction as Jack
2011 J. Edgar as Robert Kennedy
2011 Burn Notice: The Fall of Sam Axe as Michael Westen (cameo) Director
2008 Changeling as Captain J.J. Jones
2008 Hindsight as Paul
2006 Believe in Me as Clay Driscoll
2006 Come Early Morning as Cal Percell
2005 Hitch as Vance
2004 Sam & Joe as Eric
2003 Final Draft as Pascal (as Jeff Donovan)
2002 Purpose as Robert Jennings
2000 Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2 as Jeffrey "Jeff" Patterson
2000 Bait as Julio
1998 When Trumpets Fade as Bobby
1998 Witness to the Mob as Agent #1
1997 Catherine's Grove as Thomas Mason
1997 Vegas Vacation as Hotel Employee (uncredited)
1996 Critical Choices as Randy
1996 Sleepers as Addison
1995 Throwing Down as Pete Gulley