ACTOR · BORN 1945
John Lithgow
- Born
- 19 October 1945, Rochester, New York, USA
- Known for
- Interstellar (2014), Shrek (2001), Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011), The Simpsons (1989)
41 archived facts 4 topics 1 source Last reviewed Sep 2026
11 Facts About John Lithgow's Life and Family
- #001
John Lithgow graduated magna cum laude from Harvard College in 1967 with a degree in history and literature. He lived in Adams House during his undergraduate years, and later served on Harvard's Board of Overseers, showing that his contributions extended beyond stage and screen to educational institutions.
- #003
Although his parents came from a theater background, it was Peter Sellers who was the real inspiration for Lithgow's turn to acting. Sellers's unique comedic style and range of characters played a decisive role in the young Lithgow's decision to step onto the stage.
- #007
As a young man living in Yellow Springs, Ohio, Lithgow and his siblings were frequently cared for by Coretta Scott, later known as Coretta Scott King. This early acquaintance must have left a significant mark on Lithgow's life.
- #011
His wife, Mary Yeager, was a professor of economics at the University of California, Los Angeles. This academic connection shows that Lithgow's circle was not limited to the arts but also included an intellectual environment.
- #019
Lithgow's father was born in Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, where the Lithgow family had lived for several generations and where his great-grandfather served as vice consul and assistant commercial agent. John's roots are mostly Colonial American (English), particularly in New England in Massachusetts, with additional Welsh ancestry on his mother's side and more distant French, Northern Irish and Scottish origins.
- #020
His father, Arthur Lithgow, ran a Shakespeare theater company in the 1950s that included David Carradine among its members. This theatrical environment introduced John to the performing arts at an early age.
- #022
Lithgow names Chaplin's Modern Times (1936) as his favorite film. The choice reflects his interest in cinema history and his admiration for classic productions.
- #025
Lithgow graduated from Princeton High School in Princeton, New Jersey. This education formed his academic foundation and paved the way for his later studies at Harvard.
- #030
Lithgow has two grandchildren through his son Ian Lithgow. Family ties hold an important place in his private life.
- #032
Lithgow is the parent of Ian Lithgow with Jean Taynton, and of Phoebe Lithgow and Nathan Lithgow with Mary Yeager. This family structure shows that he had children in both an earlier and a later relationship.
- #038
Lithgow hosted the Welcome Reception held for UCLA's new Chancellor Carnesale. The event reflects his connection to the university and his role before the community.
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