Cliff DeYoung

In the vibrant tapestry of American stage and screen, the name Cliff DeYoung resonates with the quiet assurance of a seasoned craftsman who has cultivated a rich career spanning over five decades. Born in Los Angeles on February 12, 1946, Clifford Tobin DeYoung emerged against the backdrop of a world in flux—a theme that would echo throughout his diverse portfolio of work as an actor and musician. Cliff DeYoung's early forays into performance began not on a glittering Hollywood stage, but as the lead singer of the rock band Clear Light. A product of the 1960s counterculture, Clear Light's psychedelic sounds landed them a deal with Elektra Records. However, despite their critically lauded album, the tides of rock and roll soon shifted, and DeYoung found himself at a crossroads that would lead him to New York City and the pulsating heart of Broadway. It was in 1971 that DeYoung stepped into the realm of theater, initially making waves on Broadway with the original production of "Sticks and Bones," a Frank Gilroy play that grappled with the aftermath of the Vietnam War—a subject close to the American consciousness of the time. This critical and thought-provoking piece set the stage for DeYoung’s future, hinting at his penchant for characters enmeshed in the human condition's complexities. DeYoung's path was further illuminated when he starred in the Broadway musical "Hair," a cultural phenomenon that both reflected and propelled the era’s revolutionary spirit. The raw energy of "Hair" showcased his ability to marry music with storytelling—a dual talent that would become a defining feature of his eclectic career. By the mid-1970s, Cliff DeYoung had transitioned to screen acting, where he quickly found a niche portraying everyman characters with profound depth and sincerity. His breakout role came in 1974 with the TV movie "The Marcus-Nelson Murders," a gripping pilot for the iconic series "Kojak." DeYoung's portrayal garnered attention, marking him as an actor of considerable promise. The late 1970s and 1980s were prolific years for DeYoung, a period during which he delicately balanced a wide array of TV and film roles. In 1977, he starred opposite John Travolta in the television movie "The Boy in the Plastic Bubble," a poignant drama that solidified his reputation for choosing emotionally resonant projects. His versatility was further displayed in movies like "Shock Treatment" (1981), the sequel to "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," where he assumed the dual roles of Brad Majors and Farley Flavors with both comedic and dramatic flair. DeYoung's film career flourished with appearances in "Blue Collar" (1978), a gritty social commentary directed by Paul Schrader, and "King of the Mountain" (1981), where he starred alongside Harry Hamlin. Yet, it was his work in television that showcased his breadth as an actor. Cliff DeYoung became a familiar face in TV dramas and miniseries, including "Centennial" (1978-1979), where he captivated audiences with his portrayal of John Skimmerhorn, a character deeply rooted in America's frontier history. As he traversed the landscape of television, DeYoung's penchant for complex, sometimes haunted roles became evident in projects like "Flight 90: Disaster on the Potomac" (1984) and "Helen Keller: The Miracle Continues" (1984), where he played Captain Lewis and John Macy respectively. His ability to navigate intricate narratives and bring authenticity to his roles earned him respect and recognition from peers and viewers alike. DeYoung's longevity in the industry is a testament to his adaptability and dedication to his craft. In the 1990s and beyond, he continued to build an impressive body of work with recurring roles in television series such as "JAG," "The Practice," and "Alias." His guest appearances in shows like "The West Wing" and "How to Get Away with Murder" further demonstrated his seamless transition between genres and formats. Off-screen, Cliff DeYoung has lived a life steeped in rich personal experiences, which have invariably informed his artistic expression. He remains a resident of California, where he balances his career with personal pursuits, including family life with his wife and children. Despite the evolution of the entertainment industry over the decades, DeYoung has remained a steadfast and relatable figure, embodying the resilience and tenacity emblematic of Hollywood's storied character actors. The quiet dynamism of Cliff DeYoung's career reflects a commitment to authenticity in a sphere often accused of artifice. He has crafted a legacy defined not by the fleeting glare of the spotlight but by the enduring strength of his performances. In each role, he leaves a signature—a subtle reminder of the power of perseverance and the enduring allure of the man behind the myriad faces of American film and television.