David Strathairn is an American film, stage and television actor. He was nominated for an Academy Award, Golden Glob and SAG for portraying journalist Edward R. Murrow in Good Night, and Good Luck. He has appeared in many of writer/director John Sayles's movies. Strathairn is often regarded as a character actor, appearing in supporting roles in many independent and Hollywood films. He won the Independent Spirit Award for his work in City of Hope. Other notable films he has done include Silkwood, Passion Fish, The Firm, L.A. Confidential, and The Bourne Ultimatum.