Tom McCarthy

Though actor Tom McCarthy began his career performing in front of the camera on notable features and television shows, he furthered his artistic ambitions as the director of acclaimed independent films like "The Station Agent" (2003) and "The Visitor" (2008), both of which earned considerable critical acclaim and award recognition. Prior to his turn to directing, McCarthy made a name for himself on stage, forming a noted comedy improv troupe in college before exploring the depths of Shakespeare in several productions. After cutting his teeth guest-starring on "Law & Order" (NBC, 1990-2010), "Spin City" (ABC, 1996-2002), "Ally McBeal" (Fox, 1997-2002) and "The Practice" (ABC, 1997-2004), McCarthy had a memorable, but short-lived regular series role on "Boston Public" (Fox, 2000-04). But it was his first film, "The Station Agent," which starred the 4'5" actor Peter Dinklage, that propelled McCarthy's status, especially after the film was nominated for a number of critics and festival awards. By the time he directed his second film, "The Visitor," which earned equal amounts of critical praise and award nominations, McCarthy was well on his way to developing a reputation as a versatile and talented artist. That view was confirmed when McCarthy's film "Spotlight" (2016) won Best Picture at the 2016 Academy Awards.