George Grizzard

A respected actor of the stage and screen most often associated with the plays of Edward Albee, George Grizzard was born in Roanoke Rapids, N.C., on April 1, 1928. His extensive résumé of theater credits includes "The Disenchanted" (1956), for which he earned a Tony nomination; "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" (1962), in which he originated the role of Nick; and the Broadway revival of "A Delicate Balance" (1996), for which he earned a Tony Award.

But Grizzard also gained notoriety as a supporting actor in television and film, earning an Emmy nod for his portrayal of John Adams in the TV miniseries "The Adams Chronicles" (1976) and landing a recurring role on "Law & Order" (1992-2000) as a powerful defense attorney.

Notable films include Advise & Consent (1962), Wonder Boys (2000) and Flags of Our Fathers (2006). Grizzard died on Oct. 2, 2007, at the age of 79.