Wallace Michael Shawn (born November 12, 1943) is an American actor, essayist, playwright, and screenwriter. He is known for playing Vizzini in The Princess Bride (1987), Mr. Hall in Clueless (1995), Dr. John Sturgis in Young Sheldon (2017–2024), and voicing Rex in the Toy Story franchise (1995–present). Shawn also appeared in The Bostonians (1984), Prick Up Your Ears (1987), Scenes from the Class Struggle in Beverly Hills (1989), Vanya on 42nd Street (1994), My Favorite Martian (1999), The Dou
Did you know that despite his prolific acting career, Wallace Shawn is also a highly regarded essayist whose political writings are published in major outlets like The Nation?
Wallace Shawn's career defining moment could be considered the 1981 film "My Dinner with Andre," which he co-wrote and starred in. This critically acclaimed project showcased his intellectual depth, unique persona, and talents as both a writer and an actor, cementing his place as a distinctive artistic voice.
Wallace Shawn leaves a legacy as a distinctive character actor and intellectual, whose unique voice and presence have enriched both mainstream cinema and independent theater, creating memorable characters and thought-provoking works.
Also known as: W. Shawn, Wal Shawn