Stephen Root (born November 17, 1951) is an American actor. He starred as Jimmy James on the NBC sitcom NewsRadio (1995–1999), played Milton Waddams in the film Office Space (1999), and voiced Bill Dauterive and Buck Strickland on the animated series King of the Hill (1997–2010, 2025–present).
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Stephen Root Net Worth
Stephen Root has a net worth of $6 million. He is best known for playing eccentric billionaire Jimmy James on the NBC sitcom NewsRadio, and for his recurring role as Republican campaign consultant Bob Mayer on the final two seasons of The West Wing.
Root has appeared in numerous comedy films, including as the mumbling, quirky Milton Waddams in Office Space; the mild-mannered gym rat Gordon Pibb in Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story; Suds, a drunk sportswriter, in Leatherheads; and a dimwitted principal in the 2008 Judd Apatow-produced comedy Drillbit Taylor.
Early Life
Root was born in Sarasota, Florida, on November 17, 1951, to Leona Estelle and Rolland Clair Root, a project superintendent and site manager on major civil engineering projects across the U.S. and Mexico.
He has compared his childhood to that of an Army brat, as his family frequently relocated while his father completed each construction project.
Career
Root began his career on stage in 1980, making his Broadway debut in the play Journey’s End as Second Lieutenant Trotter. He also appeared as Frank Lubey in All My Sons and played Jon in the 2015 play Marjorie Prime.
Root made his feature film debut in 1988 as a DEA agent in Crocodile Dundee II. That same year, he acted in the psychological horror film Monkey Shines as Dean Burbage. He also made a brief cameo in the 1990 movie Ghost.
Personal Life
Root married his first wife, Laura Joan Hase, in 1984, and they have a son named Cody. The couple divorced in August 1997. He later married actress Romy Rosemont on December 14, 2008.
They have co-starred in several television shows, including Fringe and Masters of Sex. They were scheduled to appear together in the 2011 horror film Red State, but Rosemont had to withdraw due to a scheduling conflict with Glee.
Who is the Guy in Office Space with Glasses?
Stephen Root is the actor behind Milton Waddams, the memorable character from the cult classic “Office Space.” Root’s portrayal of the disgruntled office worker, with his quiet demeanor and attachment to his stapler, has become one of the film’s most iconic elements, further cementing Root’s status as a character acting legend.
Conclusion
Stephen Root’s journey from a young actor to a seasoned professional with a net worth of $6 million is a compelling narrative of talent, perseverance, and adaptability. His contribution to the arts, marked by memorable characters and performances, has solidified his place in the annals of Hollywood history.
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FAQs about Stephen Root
- How did Stephen Root start his acting career?
- Root began his career on Broadway before transitioning to film and television, where he quickly made a name for himself as a versatile character actor.
- What are some of Stephen Root’s most memorable roles?
- Root is best known for his roles in “NewsRadio,” “Office Space,” “King of the Hill,” and “Barry,” among many others.
- Has Stephen Root won any major awards for his acting?
- While Root has received several nominations for his work, a major award win has so far eluded him, despite his critical acclaim.
- What makes Stephen Root a sought-after character actor?
- Root’s ability to embody a wide array of characters, coupled with his exceptional talent for both comedy and drama, makes him a favorite among directors and audiences.
- What projects is Stephen Root currently working on?
- As a constantly working actor, Root is always involved in new projects, including film, television, and voice work, continuing to entertain and impress with his performances.
