NewsRadio Cast & Character Guide: Where The Actors Are Now

May 21, 2024, 11 p.m.

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NewsRadio Cast & Character Guide: Where The Actors Are Now

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Summary The eclectic mix of characters in NewsRadio brings a perfect blend of comedy and heart to the classic sitcom.

Actors like Dave Foley and Stephen Root have continued to have successful careers post-NewsRadio in both comedy and drama.

The legacy of NewsRadio lives on through the memorable performances of actors like Maura Tierney and Phil Hartman, despite its relatively short run.

The NewsRadio cast is full of actors who would become famous actors and, ironically, podcast hosts. NewsRadio is a classic sitcom that aired from 1995 to 1999, captivating audiences with its witty humor and eccentric cast of characters. Set in the fictional WNYX radio station in New York City, the show revolves around the hilarious interactions and mishaps of the station's staff. Despite its relatively short run, NewsRadio remains a beloved series known for its clever writing and strong ensemble cast.

The series features an eclectic mix of characters, each bringing their unique quirks to the table. From the Midwestern news director, Dave Nelson, to the station's eccentric billionaire owner, Jimmy James, the show delivers a perfect blend of comedy and heart. With memorable performances from the likes of Phil Hartman, Maura Tierney, and Stephen Root, NewsRadio has left a lasting legacy in the world of sitcoms. The main NewsRadio cast is why the show holds such a cult status, and where the actors are now may be a surprise.

The Entire NewsRadio Cast Actor Character Dave Foley Dave Nelson Stephen Root Jimmy James Andy Dick Matthew Brock Maura Tierney Lisa Miller Vicki Lewis Beth Joe Rogan Joe Garrelli Khandi Alexander Catherine Duke Phil Hartman Bill McNeal Jon Lovitz Max Lewis Norm Macdonald Roger Drake Sather Roger Tone Lōc Lorenzo Toby Huss Junior Patrick Warburton Johnny Johnson Lauren Graham Andrea Brad Rowe Walt David Cross Various Characters Brian Posehn Various Characters David Anthony Higgins Various Characters Dave Allen Various Characters Wallace Langham Various Characters Bob Odenkirk Various Characters

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Dave Foley As Dave Nelson

Dave Nelson, portrayed by Dave Foley, is the straight-laced news director of WNYX. Hailing from Wisconsin, Dave often finds himself as the voice of reason amidst the chaos of the newsroom. His friendly, easy-going demeanor and numerous hidden talents, such as ventriloquism and knife throwing, set him apart from his more eccentric colleagues. Despite his professional competence, Dave's personal quirks, like his overwhelming coffee addiction and passion for classic sitcoms, make him a relatable and endearing character.

Dave Foley's Notable Roles Movie/TV Show Character A Bug's Life Flik The Kids in the Hall Various Hot in Cleveland Bob The Middle Dr. Fulton

Dave Foley, known for his work with the comedy troupe The Kids in the Hall, brought his impeccable comedic timing to NewsRadio. Since the show ended, Foley has enjoyed a successful career in television and film. He has appeared in various projects, including A Bug's Life, Hot in Cleveland, and The Middle. The actor recently dove into crime by appearing in the Fargo season 5 cast. Foley continues to be a prominent figure in the comedy world, both on screen and on stage.

Stephen Root As Jimmy James

Jimmy James, played by Stephen Root, is the eccentric billionaire owner of WNYX. With a playful and extroverted personality, Jimmy often meddles in the station's affairs, much to the chagrin of his employees. Despite his wealth and power, Jimmy enjoys micromanaging the station and acts as a father figure to the staff. His bizarre conspiracies, like claiming to be Deep Throat or D.B. Cooper, add a layer of humor to his character.

Stephen Root's Notable Roles Movie/TV Show Character Office Space Milton Waddams Dodgeball Gordon King of the Hill Bill Dauterive (voice) Barry Monroe Fuches

Stephen Root is a versatile actor known for his roles in both comedy and drama. After NewsRadio, Root's career flourished with memorable performances in comedy classics Office Space and Dodgeball, and he voiced Bill Dauterive in King of the Hill. More recently, he has appeared in acclaimed series such as Barry and The Man in the High Castle. Root's ability to seamlessly transition between genres has made him a highly respected actor in Hollywood.

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Andy Dick As Matthew Brock

Matthew Brock, portrayed by Andy Dick, is the clumsy and naive news reporter at WNYX. Often the butt of physical jokes, Matthew's incompetence and childlike innocence make him a lovable yet hapless character. Despite holding a degree in dentistry, he prefers radio journalism, idolizing his co-worker Bill McNeal. Matthew's eccentricities and mishaps provide much of the show's slapstick humor.

Andy Dick's Notable Roles Movie/TV Show Character Less Than Perfect Owen Kronsky Old School Barry The Ben Stiller Show Various Zoolander Olga

Andy Dick is a comedian and actor known for his distinctive style of comedy. Post-NewsRadio, Dick continued to work in television and film, with roles in Less Than Perfect, Old School, and The Ben Stiller Show. Despite Dick's personal and legal issues over the years, he remains active in the entertainment industry, often appearing in reality shows and stand-up comedy specials.

Andy Dick almost played Mugatu instead of Olga in Zoolander.

Maura Tierney As Lisa Miller

Lisa Miller, played by Maura Tierney, is a highly competent and overachieving reporter at WNYX. Known for her obsessive nature and impressive intelligence, Lisa can perform complex calculations in her head and keeps a detailed life plan. Her on-again, off-again relationship with Dave Nelson adds a romantic subplot to the series. Despite her professional demeanor, Lisa's quirks, such as her repressed Boston accent and competitive nature, make her a multifaceted character.

Maura Tierney's Notable Roles Movie/TV Show Character ER Abby Lockhart The Affair Helen Solloway Rescue Me Kelly McPhee The Iron Claw Doris von Erich Liar Liar Audrey Reede

Maura Tierney is a critically acclaimed actress with a diverse body of work. Following NewsRadio, she gained widespread recognition for her role as Abby Lockhart on ER, earning an Emmy nomination. Tierney has also appeared in shows like The Affair, for which she won a Golden Globe, and Rescue Me. She recently starred in the universally acclaimed wrestling drama, The Iron Claw. Her ability to tackle both dramatic and comedic roles has solidified her status as a talented and versatile actress in the industry.

Vicki Lewis As Beth

Beth, portrayed by Vicki Lewis, is the quirky and vibrant secretary at WNYX. Known for her eccentric outfits and bright red hair, Beth brings a unique energy to the office. Despite her seemingly frivolous nature, she is a loyal and reliable assistant to Dave Nelson. Her unconventional style and playful demeanor make her a standout character in the series.

Vicki Lewis's Notable Roles Movie/TV Show Character Mousehunt April Smuntz Three Sisters Nora Finding Nemo Deb/Flo (voice) Chicago Velma Kelly (Broadway) Godzilla Elsie Chapman

Vicki Lewis is a talented actress and singer who has appeared in numerous television shows and films following her time on NewsRadio. Lewis continued her acting career with roles in Mousehunt, Three Sisters, and in the Finding Nemo cast, where she voiced Deb/Flo. She has also appeared on Broadway in productions like Chicago and Damn Yankees. Lewis's dynamic range as an actress has allowed her to thrive in both comedic and dramatic roles.

Joe Rogan As Joe Garrelli

Joe Garrelli, played by Joe Rogan, is the street-smart electrician and handyman at WNYX. Known for his conspiracy theories - just like the actor who plays him - and homemade gadgets, Joe often provides comic relief with his unconventional solutions to office problems. Despite his rugged exterior, Joe has a soft spot for his colleagues and is particularly infatuated with Catherine Duke.

Joe Rogan's Notable Roles Movie/TV Show Character Fear Factor Host The Joe Rogan Experience Host UFC Commentator Here Comes the Boom Himself

Joe Rogan is a multifaceted entertainer known for his work as a comedian, actor, and podcast host. After NewsRadio, Rogan gained fame as the host of Fear Factor and as a commentator for the UFC. His podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience, has become one of the most popular in the world. It features interviews with a wide range of guests, including Elon Musk, world-class biologists, and other comedians.

Joe Rogan's YouTube channel has over 16 million subscribers and 3.5 billion total views.

Khandi Alexander As Catherine Duke

Catherine Duke, portrayed by Khandi Alexander, is the sharp-tongued news anchor at WNYX. Known for her no-nonsense attitude and rivalry with Bill McNeal, Catherine is a strong and assertive presence in the newsroom. Her ability to handle difficult situations with poise and wit makes her a respected figure among her colleagues. Catherine often uses her charms to get her way and is well-known for slapping co-workers to express her contempt. Her departure to London in the fourth season marked a significant change in the dynamics of the show.

Khandi Alexander's Notable Roles Movie/TV Show Character ER Jackie Robbins CSI: Miami Alexx Woods Treme LaDonna Batiste-Williams Scandal Maya Pope

Khandi Alexander is an accomplished actress with a career spanning television, film, and stage. Following her role in NewsRadio, Alexander starred in critically acclaimed series such as ER, CSI: Miami, and Treme. She also delivered a powerful performance in Scandal as Maya Pope. Alexander's talent and versatility have earned her recognition and admiration in the entertainment industry. Beyond acting, she has also worked as a choreographer, notably for Whitney Houston's World Tour.

Phil Hartman As Bill McNeal

Bill McNeal, played by Phil Hartman, is the arrogant and often abrasive news anchor at WNYX. Known for his loud personality and frequent clashes with his colleagues, Bill is a memorable character who provides much of the show's humor. Despite his flaws, Bill occasionally shows a softer side, demonstrating his loyalty and care for his co-workers. He often regales his colleagues with painful stories told with cheerful nostalgia, punctuated by his signature phrase, "good times, good times." Bill's over-the-top confidence and brash demeanor create a perfect foil for the more reserved Dave, making their interactions a highlight of the series.

Phil Hartman's Notable Roles Movie/TV Show Character Saturday Night Live Various The Simpsons Troy McClure (and other voice roles) Jingle All the Way Ted Maltin Small Soldiers Phil Fimple

Phil Hartman was a beloved comedian and actor known for his work on Saturday Night Live and his voice roles on The Simpsons. Tragically, Hartman passed away in 1998, but his legacy lives on through his iconic performances. His portrayal of Bill McNeal remains one of his most memorable roles, showcasing his exceptional comedic talent and timing. Hartman's ability to infuse his characters with both humor and humanity earned him widespread admiration. In addition to his television work, Hartman appeared in numerous films, including Jingle All the Way and Small Soldiers, cementing his status as a beloved character actor.

Jon Lovitz As Max Lewis

Max Lewis, portrayed by Jon Lovitz, is Bill McNeal's replacement in the final season of NewsRadio. Socially awkward and neurotic, Max struggles to fit in with the WNYX staff. His attempts to emulate Bill often lead to humorous and cringeworthy moments, as Max's lack of confidence and skill make him an awkward presence in the newsroom. Despite his shortcomings, Max has a penchant for redheads, particularly Beth, though his advances are typically met with disdain. Max's quirky behavior and efforts to bond with his new colleagues add a unique dynamic to the show's final season.

Jon Lovitz's Notable Roles Movie/TV Show Character Saturday Night Live Various The Wedding Singer Jimmie Moore Rat Race Randall The Critic Jay Sherman (voice)

Jon Lovitz is a comedian and actor best known for his work on Saturday Night Live, where he became famous for characters like The Pathological Liar and Master Thespian. After NewsRadio, Lovitz continued to have a successful career in comedy, appearing in films like The Wedding Singer and Rat Race. Additionally, Lovitz appeared in Friends twice, with the appearances being eight years apart. He has also lent his voice to animated series such as The Simpsons, where he voiced Artie Ziff, Jay Sherman, and many others.

NewsRadio Supporting Cast & Characters

Norm Macdonald as Roger - Jimmy's lawyer, portrayed initially by Norm Macdonald. Macdonald is best known for his time on Saturday Night Live as the Weekend Update anchor and for his role in the film Dirty Work.

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Drake Sather as Roger - Sather took over the role of Roger, imitating Norm Macdonald's vocal style. Sather was also a comedian and writer known for creating the character of Derek Zoolander.

Tone Lōc as Lorenzo - One of the security guards in two episodes during season 2. Tone Lōc is also known for his hit rap songs "Wild Thing" and "Funky Cold Medina," as well as roles in Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and FernGully: The Last Rainforest.

Toby Huss as Junior - The other half of the security guard duo, appearing in two episodes in season 2. Huss is known for his voice work in King of the Hill as Cotton Hill and Kahn Souphanousinphone, and his role in Halt and Catch Fire.

Patrick Warburton as Johnny Johnson - Jimmy's nemesis and Lisa's love interest, who becomes her husband. Warburton is widely recognized for his roles in Seinfeld as David Puddy, The Tick as the titular character, and as the voice of Kronk in The Emperor's New Groove.

Lauren Graham as Andrea - A manipulative efficiency expert who shakes up the office in four episodes. Graham is best known for her role as Lorelai Gilmore in Gilmore Girls and Sarah Braverman in Parenthood.

Brad Rowe as Walt - Jimmy's nephew who has a crush on Lisa, appearing in four episodes. Rowe is also known for his roles in Billy's Hollywood Screen Kiss and National Treasure: Book of Secrets.

David Cross as Various Characters - Cross appeared in multiple roles across different seasons. He is best known for his work on Mr. Show with Bob and David and for playing Tobias Fünke in Arrested Development.

Brian Posehn as Various Characters - Posehn took on several roles throughout the series. He is recognized for his work in The Sarah Silverman Program, Just Shoot Me!, and his voice role in Mission Hill.

David Anthony Higgins as Various Characters - Higgins portrayed different characters in the show. He is known for his roles in the Malcolm in the Middle cast as Craig Feldspar, and in Mike & Molly as Harry.

Bob Odenkirk as Various Characters - Odenkirk appeared in several different roles in NewsRadio. He is best known for his work in Mr. Show with Bob and David and his role as Saul Goodman in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul.

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Dave Allen as Various Characters - Allen appeared in various roles on the show. He is also known for his performances in Freaks and Geeks and The Naked Trucker and T-Bones Show.

Wallace Langham as Various Characters - Langham took on multiple roles throughout the series. He is best known for his role as Phil in The Larry Sanders Show and David Hodges in CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.

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