Judd Nelson Biography
Judd Nelson is an American actor who was born in Portland, Maine, United States of America. He is widely known for his roles as John Bender in The Breakfast Club, Alec Newbury in St. Elmo’s Fire, Joe Hunt in Billionaire Boys Club, Nick Peretti in New Jack City, and Billy Beretti in Empire, Jack Richmond in the television series Suddenly Susan.
Nelson’s breakthrough role came in 1985 when he starred as John Bender, the rebellious bad boy, in the coming-of-age film “The Breakfast Club.” The film was a critical and commercial success, and Nelson was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for Best Male Lead.
Later that year, Nelson starred as Alec Newbury, the troubled young man who commits suicide, in the drama “St. Elmo’s Fire.” The film was not as successful as “The Breakfast Club,” but it further cemented Nelson’s status as a member of the Brat Pack, a group of young actors who were popular in the 1980s.
Nelson continued to work steadily throughout the 1980s and 1990s, appearing in films such as “Newsies” (1992), “Rudy” (1993), and “About Schmidt” (2002). He also had recurring roles on the television shows “Suddenly Susan” (1996-2000) and “CSI: NY” (2004-2005).
10 Quick Facts About Judd Nelson
Judd Nelson Age
Nelson is 64 years old. He was born on November 28, 1959, in Portland, Maine, United States. He celebrates his birthday on November 28 every year his birth sign is Sagittarius.
Judd Nelson Height
Nelson stands at a height of 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 m).
Judd Nelson Weight
Nelson weighs 80 kg (176 lbs).
Early Life and Education
Judd Asher Nelson was born on November 28, 1959, in Portland, Maine. He is the son of Merle Nelson (née Royte), a court mediator and former member of the Maine House of Representatives, and Leonard Nelson, a corporate lawyer. Nelson has two older sisters, Eve and Julie.
Nelson grew up in a Conservative Jewish home, although his family did not keep kosher. His father was the first Jewish president of the Portland Symphony Orchestra. He attended St. Paul’s School, an Episcopalian boarding school in Concord, New Hampshire.
While at St. Paul’s, Nelson experienced anti-Semitism, which led him to embrace his Jewish identity more strongly. He later attended Waynflete School in Portland, Maine.
Nelson studied philosophy at Haverford College in Pennsylvania, but left during his sophomore year to pursue a career in acting. He subsequently moved to Manhattan to study acting with Stella Adler.
Rise to Fame
Judd Nelson’s rise to fame began in the mid-1980s, when he starred in a series of successful teen films that captured the spirit of the era. His breakthrough role came in 1985 with the iconic coming-of-age film “The Breakfast Club.” In the film, Nelson played John Bender, the rebellious bad boy who is forced to spend a Saturday in detention with four other students from different social groups.
Nelson’s portrayal of Bender was both charismatic and vulnerable, and he quickly became a fan favorite. “The Breakfast Club” was a critical and commercial success, and it solidified Nelson’s status as a rising star.
Later that year, Nelson starred in another popular teen film, “St. Elmo’s Fire.” In the film, Nelson played Alec Newbury, a troubled young man who commits suicide. “St. Elmo’s Fire” was not as successful as “The Breakfast Club,” but it further cemented Nelson’s status as a member of the Brat Pack, a group of young actors who were popular in the 1980s.
Judd Nelson Family, Parents
Nelson was born to his parents Merle Nelson and Leonard Nelson in Maine. His mother Merle, served as a court mediator and former member of the Maine state legislature, while his father Leonard, as a corporate lawyer. His family is Jewish, as well as his father was the first Jewish president of the Portland Symphony Orchestra.
Judd Nelson Siblings
Judd has two younger siblings, both sisters named Eve Nelson and Julie Nelson.
Judd Nelson Wife
Nelson is currently married to his wife Sheryl Berkoff. The couple tied the knot in 1991. However, he has been in various different relationships. Between 2003-2005, Judd dated Sheila Lussier, in 1993 Shannen Doherty, 1985-1988 Loree Rodkin, and lastly Tabitha Stevens. Judd has a daughter, Mathilda, born in 2003. He also has other twins, Adele and Roman. The two were born in the year 2009.
Judd Nelson Children
Nelson is a father of three children, a daughter named Mathilda born in 2003, and twins named Adele and Roman who were born in 2009.
Judd Nelson Net Worth
Nelson has an estimated net worth of $4 million dollars as of 2023. This includes his Assets, Money, and Income. His primary source of income is his career as an actor. Through his various sources of income, Judd has been able to accumulate good fortune but prefers to lead a modest lifestyle.
Judd Nelson Measurements and Facts
Here are some interesting facts and body measurements you should know about Judd.
Judd Nelson Wiki
- Full Names: Judd Asher Nelson
- Popular As: Judd
- Gender: Male
- Occupation / Profession: Actor
- Nationality: American
- Race / Ethnicity: Ashkenazi Jewish
- Religion: Judaism
- Sexual Orientation: Straight or Gay
Judd Nelson Birthday
- Age / How Old?: 64 years old
- Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
- Date of Birth: November 28, 1959
- Place of Birth: Portland, Maine, USA
- Birthday: November 28
Judd Nelson Body Measurements
- Body Measurements: 42-15-34 inches
- Height / How Tall?: 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 m)
- Weight: 80 kg (176 lbs)
- Eye Color: Hazel
- Hair Color: Light Brown
- Shoe Size: 11 (US)
- Chest Size: 42 inches
- Waist Size: 34 inches
- Bicep Size: 15 inches
Judd Nelson Family and Relationship
- Father (Dad): Leonard Nelson
- Mother: Merle Nelson (née Royte
- Siblings (Brothers and Sisters): Eve Nelson, Julie Nelson
- Marital Status: Married
- Wife/Spouse: Married to Sheryl Berkoff
- Dating / Girlfriend: Not Applicable
- Children: Sons (Roman) Daughter(s) (Mathilda and Adele)
Judd Nelson Net Worth and Salary
- Net Worth: $4 Million
- Salary: Under Review
- Source of Income: Actor
Judd Nelson Actor
Nelson began acting in the mid-1980s and has still remained in the entertainment industry. he made his debut in Making the Grade (1984), and in Fandango (1985) opposite Kevin Costner. It was his roles in John Hughes’s The Breakfast Club (1985) and Joel Schumacher’s St. Elmo’s Fire (1985) – and his affiliation with the Brat Pack – that made him a star.
In the 21st century, Nelson has appeared in such TV series as The Outer Limits (2000), CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (2006), CSI: NY (2007), Las Vegas (2007), and Eleventh Hour (2008) as a psychologist researching soldiers returning from Iraq who suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder, Psych (2010), and a recurring role in Two and a Half Men (2010) with Charlie Sheen.
In 2021, Nelson starred as Don Cody in the Lifetime film Girl in the Basement which was inspired by the Fritzl case.
Judd Nelson The Breakfast Club
Nelson plays the role of John Bender in The Breakfast Club, a 1985 American teen coming-of-age comedy-drama film written, produced and directed by John Hughes. It stars Emilio Estevez, Paul Gleason, Anthony Michael Hall, Judd Nelson, Molly Ringwald, and Ally Sheedy.
The film centers on the story of five teenagers from different high school cliques who serve a Saturday detention overseen by their authoritarian vice-principal.
Judd Nelson Movies and TV Shows
Movies
- 1983 Rock ‘n’ Roll Hotel Rocker Johnny
- 1984 Making the Grade Eddie Keaton
- 1985 The Breakfast Club John Bender
- 1986 The Transformers: The Movie Hot Rod / Rodimus Prime Voice
- 1987 From the Hip Robin ‘Stormy’ Weathers
- 1989 Relentless Arthur ‘Buck’ Taylor
- 1990 Far Out Man Himself Cameo
- 1991 New Jack City Nick Peretti
- 1992 Primary Motive Andrew Blumenthal
- 1993 Conflict of Interest Gideon
- 1994 Every Breath Jimmy Also Writer and Producer
- 1995 Blackwater Trail Matt
- 1996 For a Few Lousy Dollars Hitman
- 1997 Steel Nathaniel Burke
- 1999 Light It Up Ken Knowles
- 2000 Endsville Rufus the Buck-Toothed Sluggard
- 2001 Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back Sheriff
- 2002 Deceived Jack Jones
- 2003 White Rush Brian Nathanson
- 2005 Lethal Eviction Shep
- 2007 Netherbeast Incorporated Steven P.D. Landry
- 2008 The Caretaker Ella’s dad[26]
- 2009 Dirty Politics Billy
- 2010 The Terror Experiment (Fight or Flight) Agent Wilson
- 2012 Bad Kids Go to Hell Headmaster Nash
- 2013 Last Chance Holiday Glenn Cartwell
- 2014 Nurse 3D Dr. Morris
- 2016 Stagecoach: The Texas Jack Story Sid Dalton
- 2018 Billionaire Boys Club Ryan Hunt
- 2019 Dead Water San McLean
- 2022 The Most Dangerous Game Marcus Rainsford
TV Shows
- 1986 Moonlighting Policeman Episode: “Camille”
- 1987 Billionaire Boys Club Joe Hunt 2 episodes
- 1990 Hiroshima: Out of the Ashes Pete Dunham Television film
- 1992 Tales from the Crypt Gaston Episode: “What’s Cookin'”
- 1995 Circumstances Unknown Paul Kinsey Television film
- 1996–1999 Suddenly Susan Jack Richmond 71 episodes
- 1999 Mr. Rock ‘n’ Roll: The Alan Freed Story Alan Freed Television film
- 2000 The Outer Limits Harry Longworth Episode: “Something About Harry”
- 2000 Cabin by the Lake Stanley Television film
- 2000 The Spiral Staircase Phillip Warren Television film
- 2000 The New Adventures of Spin and Marty: Suspect Behavior Jack Hulka
- 2001 Strange Frequency Martin Potter Television film
- 2001 Lost Voyage Aaron Roberts Television film
- 2002 Cybermutt Alex Television film
- 2002 Santa Jr. Darryl Bedford Television film
- 2005 Three Wise Guys George Television film
- 2006 Black Hole Eric Television film
- 2006 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Mick Sheridan Episode: “Time of Your Death”
- 2007 Las Vegas Ollie Episode: “Fleeting Cheating Meeting”
- 2008 Infected Malcolm Burgess Television film
- 2009 Phineas and Ferb The Guru Voice, episode: “Isabella and the Temple of Sap”
- 2010 Psych Dr. Steven Reidman Episode: “Death Is in the Air”
- 2011 Cancel Christmas Santa / Chris Frost Television film
- 2013–2014 Ben 10: Omniverse Eon, Ben 10,000, Atomic-X Voice, 5 episodes
- 2013 Nikita Ronald Peller 2 episodes
- 2015, 2019 Empire Billy Beretti 5 episodes
- 2017 Transformers: Titans Return Rodimus Prime / Hot Rod Voice, main role
- 2017 From Straight A’s to XXX Don Television film
- 2018 Transformers: Power of the Primes Rodimus Prime / Hot Rod / Rodimus Cron Voice,
- 2021 Girl in the Basement Don Cody Television film
- 2021 Law & Order: SVU Tom Mesner
Notable Travel, Events, and Experiences
Travel:
- Trekking in Nepal: Nelson embarked on a trekking expedition in Nepal in 2007, reaching an altitude of 18,000 feet. The experience was transformative for him, as he found peace and clarity amidst the stunning Himalayan scenery.
- Exploring the Amazon Rainforest: Driven by his passion for environmentalism, Nelson ventured into the Amazon Rainforest in 2010. He immersed himself in the indigenous culture and gained a profound appreciation for the rainforest’s delicate ecosystem.
- Volunteering in Africa: Nelson’s philanthropic spirit led him to volunteer in Africa, where he worked with local communities to improve access to education and healthcare. These experiences deepened his understanding of global challenges and inspired him to continue his advocacy work.
Events:
- Sundance Film Festival: Nelson has been a regular attendee of the Sundance Film Festival, showcasing his independent films and supporting emerging filmmakers. His involvement reflects his commitment to the art of filmmaking and his belief in the power of storytelling.
- Broadway Debut: In 2010, Nelson made his Broadway debut in the acclaimed revival of Arthur Miller’s “Long Day’s Journey into Night.” His captivating performance earned him critical praise and solidified his reputation as a versatile actor.
- Environmental Activism: Nelson has been a vocal advocate for environmental protection, participating in protests and demonstrations to raise awareness about climate change and conservation efforts. His activism stems from his deep connection to nature and his desire to preserve the planet for future generations.
Experiences:
- Overcoming Addiction: Nelson has openly shared his struggles with addiction and his journey towards recovery. His candidness has helped others facing similar challenges and inspired them to seek help.
- Finding Inner Peace: Through meditation and spiritual exploration, Nelson has found inner peace and resilience. His newfound sense of self has enriched his life and guided him towards more fulfilling experiences.
- Embracing Personal Growth: Nelson has embraced personal growth throughout his life, constantly seeking new challenges and expanding his horizons. His openness to change and his willingness to learn from his experiences have contributed to his success and fulfillment.
Future Aspirations and Goals
- Continuing to Act: Nelson remains passionate about acting and is eager to take on new and challenging roles. He is open to working in both film and television, and he is particularly interested in projects that explore complex human relationships.
- Directing: Nelson has expressed interest in directing his own films, drawn to the creative control and storytelling opportunities that directing offers. He is currently developing a script for a feature film that he hopes to direct in the near future.
- Writing: Nelson has also dabbled in writing, penning screenplays and short stories. He enjoys the process of creating characters and worlds through the written word, and he hopes to continue developing his writing skills.
- Teaching: Nelson has a passion for mentoring and inspiring young actors. He envisions himself teaching acting workshops or masterclasses, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of performers.
- Environmental Advocacy: Nelson remains committed to environmental protection and plans to continue using his platform to raise awareness about important issues such as climate change and sustainable practices.
Social Impact: Philanthropic, Charitable and Community Involvement
Philanthropic Efforts:
- Environmental Activism: Nelson is a passionate advocate for environmental protection. He has participated in protests and demonstrations to raise awareness about climate change and conservation efforts. He has also supported environmental organizations such as the Rainforest Action Network and the Sierra Club.
- Addiction Recovery Advocacy: Nelson has openly shared his struggles with addiction and his journey towards recovery. His candidness has helped others facing similar challenges and inspired them to seek help. He has also supported organizations that provide addiction treatment and recovery services.
- Support for Arts Education: Nelson believes in the importance of arts education and has supported programs that provide access to arts education for underserved youth. He has also participated in fundraising events and workshops to promote arts education.
Charitable Involvement:
- Habitat for Humanity: Nelson has volunteered his time and energy to Habitat for Humanity, helping to build homes for families in need. He has participated in construction projects and fundraising initiatives, demonstrating his commitment to providing affordable housing and improving communities.
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: Nelson has supported St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, an organization dedicated to finding cures and treatments for childhood cancer. He has participated in fundraising events and public service announcements, raising awareness about the hospital’s work and the importance of pediatric cancer research.
- American Red Cross: Nelson has supported the American Red Cross, an organization that provides humanitarian aid in times of disaster. He has participated in blood drives and disaster relief efforts, demonstrating his compassion and willingness to help others in need.
Community Involvement:
- Mentoring Young Actors: Nelson has mentored young actors, sharing his knowledge and experience to help them develop their craft. He has conducted workshops, participated in panel discussions, and provided one-on-one guidance to aspiring performers.
- Supporting Local Arts Organizations: Nelson has supported local arts organizations in his community, attending performances, participating in fundraising events, and advocating for arts funding. He believes in the power of the arts to enrich communities and provide a platform for creative expression.
- Promoting Social Justice: Nelson has used his platform to speak out against social injustice and advocate for equality and human rights. He has participated in protests and demonstrations, raised awareness about important issues, and supported organizations that work to promote social justice.
Judd Nelson Awards Accomplishments and Achievements
Awards:
- 1986: Nominated for Independent Spirit Award for Best Male Lead for his role in “The Breakfast Club”
- 1986: Nominated for MTV Movie Award for Best Male Performance for his role in “St. Elmo’s Fire”
- 1986: Won MTV Movie Award for Silver Bucket of Excellence Award for his role in “St. Elmo’s Fire”
Accomplishments:
- Established himself as one of the most iconic actors of the Brat Pack era
- Starred in a series of successful teen films that captured the spirit of the 1980s
- Demonstrated his versatility as an actor by taking on a variety of roles throughout his career
- Continued to work in film and television for over three decades
Achievements:
- Influenced a generation of actors and filmmakers
- Became a symbol of teenage rebellion
- Created memorable characters that continue to be popular with audiences today
- Built a successful career as an actor despite facing personal challenges
Legacy
Film and Popular Culture
- Icon of the 1980s Teen Film Movement: Nelson played pivotal roles in iconic 1980s teen films like “The Breakfast Club” and “St. Elmo’s Fire,” capturing the spirit of rebellion and angst that defined the era.
- Brat Pack Member: Nelson was part of the unofficial “Brat Pack,” a group of young actors who epitomized the rebellious and misunderstood youth of the 1980s. Their films resonated with a generation and influenced subsequent teen films.
- Versatile Actor: Nelson has demonstrated his versatility throughout his career, transitioning from teen heartthrob to mature actor, taking on diverse roles in films like “Newsies,” “Rudy,” and “About Schmidt.”
Personal Struggles and Triumphs
- Openness About Addiction: Nelson has openly shared his struggles with addiction, inspiring others to seek help and raising awareness about addiction’s impact.
- Overcoming Challenges: Nelson’s journey towards recovery from addiction is a testament to his resilience and determination, demonstrating the possibility of overcoming personal challenges.
- Finding Inner Peace: Nelson’s focus on meditation and spiritual exploration has led him to find inner peace and self-awareness, influencing his personal and professional life.
Social Activism
- Environmental Advocate: Nelson is a passionate environmentalist, actively participating in protests and demonstrations to raise awareness about climate change and conservation efforts.
- Support for Social Justice: Nelson has used his platform to speak out against social injustice and advocate for equality, challenging social norms and promoting inclusivity.
- Community Engagement: Nelson has engaged with his community, mentoring young actors, supporting local arts organizations, and promoting social justice initiatives.
Hobbies and Interests
- Photography: Nelson is an avid photographer, capturing images that showcase his artistic eye and appreciation for the world around him. He often shares his photographs on social media, providing glimpses into his personal life and travels.
- Music: Music plays a significant role in Nelson’s life. He enjoys listening to a wide range of genres, from rock and blues to jazz and classical. He has also dabbled in playing the guitar and harmonica.
- Reading: Nelson is an avid reader, devouring books on various subjects, including philosophy, history, and current events. He finds reading to be a stimulating and intellectually enriching experience.
- Meditation: Nelson practices meditation regularly, finding it a valuable tool for stress reduction, self-awareness, and inner peace. He encourages others to explore meditation and its transformative power.
- Environmentalism: Nelson is a passionate advocate for environmental protection. He actively supports organizations dedicated to conservation efforts and raises awareness about climate change.
- Social Activism: Nelson is committed to social justice and equality. He uses his platform to speak out against injustices and advocate for marginalized communities.
- Traveling: Nelson enjoys exploring new cultures and destinations. He has traveled extensively around the world, immersing himself in different cultures and gaining a broader perspective on life.
- Writing: Nelson has expressed interest in writing and has penned screenplays and short stories. He enjoys the creative process of crafting narratives and developing characters.
- Teaching: Nelson has a passion for mentoring and sharing his knowledge with others. He envisions himself teaching acting workshops or masterclasses, inspiring the next generation of performers.
- Spending time with loved ones: Nelson values his family and friends, cherishing moments spent together. He finds joy in their company and support.
Personal Beliefs
Spirituality and Inner Peace:
- Meditation and Mindfulness: Nelson has credited meditation and mindfulness practices with helping him find inner peace and a sense of balance in his life. He encourages others to explore these practices for personal growth and well-being.
- Connection to Nature: Nelson feels a deep connection to nature, finding solace and inspiration in its beauty and vastness. He believes that respecting the environment is essential for human harmony and well-being.
Environmentalism and Sustainability:
- Environmental Activism: Nelson is a passionate advocate for environmental protection, actively participating in protests, demonstrations, and awareness campaigns. He believes that climate change is a pressing issue that demands collective action.
- Sustainable Practices: Nelson strives to incorporate sustainable practices into his daily life, from conserving energy to reducing waste. He encourages others to adopt eco-friendly habits to protect the planet.
Social Justice and Equality:
- Voice for the Marginalized: Nelson uses his platform to speak out against social injustices and advocate for marginalized communities. He believes in fighting for equality and fairness for all individuals.
- Challenging Social Norms: Nelson has challenged societal norms and stereotypes throughout his career, both through his acting choices and his personal statements. He believes in questioning the status quo and promoting inclusivity.
Personal Growth and Resilience:
- Openness About Addiction: Nelson has openly shared his struggles with addiction, inspiring others to seek help and raising awareness about the impact of addiction. His experience demonstrates the power of openness and vulnerability.
- Overcoming Challenges: Nelson’s journey towards recovery from addiction is a testament to his resilience and determination. He believes that personal challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and transformation.
Quotes
“I don’t have any blindness when it comes to my money. As an actor, you can get distracted by your work. I do keep an eye on my nest egg, if you will.”
“Remember to be as smart as you are.”
“With failure, you just try again. “It’s not about how many times you fall, but how many times you get back up.”
“The only limits you have are the ones you set for yourself.”
“I’m not as tough as I used to be. I used to be a fairly tough guy. Now I just act tough in movies.”
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”
“The bottom line is, I’m blessed with good health. On top of that, I don’t go around stressing over everything.”
“I’m the guy who’s always yelling to simplify things. If you can’t explain it, then we don’t need it.”
Final Thoughts
Judd Nelson is a multifaceted actor, activist, and individual who has left a significant mark on the world. His contributions to cinema, his openness about personal struggles, and his ongoing social activism have made him a role model for many.
Judd Nelson Contacts
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