Christopher David Noth began his career in the arts after discovering acting while attending Marlboro College in Vermont. Initially intending to pursue writing or poetry, he transitioned to performance art, eventually enrolling at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre and the Yale School of Drama, which established the foundation for his long-standing presence in American television and stage productions.
Early Development and Education
Born in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1954 to Jeanne Parr and Charles James Noth, he moved frequently during his youth. Following his father's death in 1966, he attended the Storm King School and later The Barlow School, where he moved away from academic studies to prioritize the arts. After graduating from Marlboro College, he sought training at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre under Sanford Meisner. His tenure there ended prematurely when he was expelled for performing in a Manhattan Theatre Club production. He subsequently secured a scholarship to the Yale School of Drama, where he participated in over 25 plays, including productions of The Lower Depths and A Play of Giants.
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Although he initially prioritized theater and avoided television, the scarcity of roles in New York prompted him to accept screen work. His breakthrough came with his portrayal of NYPD Detective Mike Logan on Law & Order, a role he inhabited from 1990 to 1995 and later reprised on Law & Order: Criminal Intent. He gained further recognition as Big in the series Sex and the City and as Peter Florrick in The Good Wife, earning Golden Globe nominations for both programs. His later credits include the 2021 revival of The Equalizer and the Sex and the City follow-up, And Just Like That.
Stage Career and Recognition
Noth maintained an active presence in the theater throughout his career. His early work included off-off Broadway performances and roles within the Circle Repertory Company. In 1980, he appeared in Innocent Thoughts, Harmless Intentions. His commitment to the stage was formally recognized in 2001 when he received the Theatre World Award. Throughout his professional life, he has also worked as a producer, screenwriter, and nightclub owner.
Fast facts
- Born: 1954, Madison
- Citizenship: United States
- Education: Yale School of Drama, Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre, Marlboro College
- Awards: Theatre World Award (2001)
- Notable TV Roles: Law & Order, Sex and the City, The Good Wife
- Occupations: Actor, screenwriter, film producer, nightclub owner
Questions readers ask
Where did Chris Noth study acting?
He attended the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre and earned an MFA from the Yale School of Drama.
Which major television roles is he known for?
His most prominent television roles include Mike Logan on Law & Order, Big on Sex and the City, and Peter Florrick on The Good Wife.
Achievements
- Educated at Marlboro College, Yale School of Drama and Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre
- Worked as television actor, film actor and actor
