James Woods, born on April 18, 1947, in Vernal, Utah, is a highly acclaimed American actor known for his versatility and intensity. Raised in Warwick, Rhode Island, he was the son of Gail Peyton Woods, an army intelligence officer, and Martha A. Smith, a pre-school operator. His upbringing was shaped by a blend of discipline, intellect, and creativity, which eventually steered him toward a remarkable career in acting. After excelling academically at Pilgrim High School, Woods earned a scholarship to the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he studied political science. However, his passion for acting led him to abandon his studies and pursue a career in the performing arts. Over the decades, Woods has built a reputation for portraying complex characters with remarkable depth and authenticity.
Theater Beginnings and Transition to Film
James Woods began his career in the theater, earning critical acclaim for his performances on Broadway. His debut in Borstal Boy in 1970 marked the start of his journey into the entertainment industry. Over the next few years, he appeared in productions like The Trial of the Catonsville Nine and Moonchildren, demonstrating his ability to captivate audiences with his dynamic stage presence. In 1979, Woods made his film breakthrough with The Onion Field, where he delivered a chilling performance as a sadistic murderer. This role brought him widespread recognition and established him as a prominent actor in Hollywood. His success continued in the 1980s with standout roles in Videodrome (1983), Once Upon a Time in America (1984), and Salvador (1986), for which he earned his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
Detailed Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James Howard Woods |
| Date of Birth | April 18, 1947 |
| Place of Birth | Vernal, Utah, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) |
| Parents | Gail Peyton Woods, Martha A. Smith |
| Net Worth (2025) | $10 million |
| Education | Attended MIT (Political Science) |
| Notable Works | Casino, Salvador, Hercules |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
Golden Era: Dominance in the 1990s
The 1990s proved to be a golden era for James Woods, as he delivered some of his most iconic performances. In Martin Scorsese’s Casino (1995), he played Lester Diamond, a sleazy hustler who added layers of tension and drama to the film. Another defining role came in Ghosts of Mississippi (1996), where he portrayed Byron De La Beckwith, a white supremacist on trial for the assassination of civil rights leader Medgar Evers. This powerful performance earned Woods his second Academy Award nomination. Additionally, his television work flourished during this period, with his portrayal of Roy Cohn in Citizen Cohn (1992) receiving critical acclaim and earning him an Emmy Award.
Social Media Links Table
| Platform | Official Link |
| @RealJamesWoods | |
| @therealjameswoods | |
| Not Active | |
| IMDb Profile | James Woods IMDb |
| Wikipedia | James Woods Wiki |
Voice Acting and Versatility
James Woods expanded his career into voice acting, achieving remarkable success. One of his most memorable roles was voicing Hades in Disney’s animated film Hercules (1997). His portrayal of the witty and cunning god of the underworld was both humorous and menacing, cementing the character as one of Disney’s most iconic villains. Woods’ distinctive voice and sharp delivery made Hades unforgettable, and he reprised the role in various spin-offs, video games, and TV shows, earning him new generations of fans. His foray into animation and gaming showcased his adaptability and talent for bringing characters to life beyond the screen.
Physical Appearance and Charisma
Standing at 5 feet 11 inches tall with a lean build, James Woods exudes a commanding presence that has contributed to his success as an actor. His sharp facial features, intense gaze, and expressive eyes make him a natural fit for intense and dramatic roles. Even as he has aged, Woods’ charisma remains intact, with his polished appearance and confident demeanor continuing to captivate audiences worldwide. His physicality, combined with his acting prowess, has allowed him to portray a wide range of characters, from villains to heroes.
Net Worth and Financial Success
As of 2025, James Woods’ net worth is estimated at approximately $10 million. This wealth is the result of decades of work in the entertainment industry, including iconic acting roles, voice-over work, and other ventures. Additionally, Woods is an avid poker player who has participated in major tournaments, including the World Series of Poker. His financial success reflects his ability to maintain relevance in Hollywood while exploring diverse opportunities.
Awards and Recognition
Over his illustrious career, James Woods has received numerous accolades for his work. He has won three Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and has been nominated for two Academy Awards. These honors underscore his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. Whether playing morally ambiguous characters or bringing animated villains to life, Woods’ performances consistently resonate with audiences and critics alike.
Recent News
In January 2025, James Woods made headlines during the devastating Palisades Fire in Los Angeles, California. His home in the Pacific Palisades area was initially believed to be lost to the flames. However, upon returning to the site, Woods discovered that his property had miraculously survived the inferno. Describing the experience as “a miracle,” Woods expressed gratitude for the outcome while emphasizing the challenges faced by residents in wildfire-prone areas. This incident brought renewed attention to the dangers of wildfires in California and highlighted Woods’ resilience in the face of adversity.
Social Media Influence
James Woods is known for his outspoken presence on social media, particularly on Twitter. His account, @RealJamesWoods, is a platform where he shares his views on politics, current events, and personal insights. While his opinions often spark debate, they also reflect his unapologetic authenticity. Despite the controversies, Woods’ social media presence has garnered a dedicated following, demonstrating his ability to connect with fans across different platforms.
Comprehensive Career Overview Table
| Decade | Notable Works | Achievements |
| 1970s | The Onion Field | Breakthrough Role |
| 1980s | Videodrome, Salvador | Academy Award Nomination |
| 1990s | Casino, Citizen Cohn | Emmy Award, Golden Globe |
| 2000s | Shark, Hercules | Expanded into Voice Acting |
| 2020s | Social Media Influence, Recent News | Resilience in Personal Life |
Legacy and Impact
James Woods’ legacy in the entertainment industry is defined by his versatility, intensity, and dedication to his craft. Over five decades, he has captivated audiences with his ability to portray complex characters and navigate the evolving demands of Hollywood. From iconic films to unforgettable voice acting roles, Woods has left an indelible mark on the industry. His resilience, intellect, and authenticity continue to inspire both fans and aspiring actors.
